Assessing Doula Preparedness for Supporting Clients in a Hospital-Based Volunteer Doula Program

Purpose and Background: The purpose of this evaluation was to assess doulas’ sense of preparedness after completing birth doula training. The extent to which doulas feel prepared to serve clients after training is unknown. Methods: This program evaluation took place within a hospital-based volunteer doula program in the southeastern United States. The analysis focused on comparing the self-reported preparedness of volunteer doulas trained through the Partners in Birth Training program, a doula training created by the doula program, with preparedness of volunteer doulas trained by nationally recognized training programs. A survey assessed doulas’ preparedness to provide physical, emotional, and informational support. Results: Of the 100 doulas active in the program at the time of survey administration, 48 had completed the Partners in Birth Training program, 26 (54%) of whom completed the survey. Of the 32 doulas who entered the doula program following training with national organizations, 19 (59%) completed the survey. The remaining 20 doulas in the program completed a third training option and were excluded from this evaluation. In comparing doulas’ overall sense of preparedness between the 2 groups, results were similar, with the median response for both groups being mostly prepared (4 on a Likert scale from 1 to 5). Conclusions: Results suggest that localized doula training offered by hospital-based doula programs may be as effective at preparing doulas to serve in such programs as Other training organizations. Implications for Practice and Research: Systematic evaluations can help researchers and doulas identify topics and pedagogical approaches to training that increase preparedness.