Doula Programs: Risk Management Strategies

We continue with our strategies for limiting liability associated with running a doula program.

  • Support the doulas with administrative boundary setting. It is important to establish clear and systematic expectations for both volunteers and clients. Deliver a consistent message to clients regarding available services, limits to services, and the timeframe for services. This can be accomplished through: (a) a descriptive brochure (written at a third-grade level of literacy and also translated into Spanish) that clients receive from their care provider or other referring agency, (b) a verbal explanation during the initial phone enrollment interview with the program coordinator, and (c) a reiteration in writing, sent out in the form of a Welcome Letter and Client Contract (see more below). Doulas should be informed of the steps staff members are taking to set boundaries on their behalf and are mandated to work within the specified parameters as a condition of participation with the program, as noted above.
  • Create a doula contract. Doulas are mandated to work within the specified scope of practice and other program-specific parameters as a condition of participation with the program and sign a contract to that effect.

The Doula Programs blog provides a forum for doula program visionaries and implementers to consider common challenges, ask questions, and learn from each other. Patty Brennan is the author of The Doula Business Guide: Creating a Successful MotherBaby Business.

Posted by Patty Brennan on August 4, 2011 • Filed under Doula Programs
Comments (0)

Comments