New Jersey Assembly Bill A2028

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24
• Chaptered: 1/9/24
• Passed: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires certain health care facilities to develop certain doula policies and procedures.

Impact

The bill has implications for the regulation of maternity services within hospitals and birthing centers throughout New Jersey. Hospitals and birthing centers must develop and maintain written policies that facilitate the presence of doulas, which will provide a clearer framework for how these professionals can support patients. Additionally, healthcare providers and patients will receive written copies of the relevant policies, promoting transparency and awareness of the rights of patients in these facilities.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2028 aims to enhance the experience of patients receiving maternity services in New Jersey by requiring hospitals and birthing centers to adopt specific policies regarding the presence of doulas. This legislation mandates that patients have the right to select a doula of their choice to provide continuous support before, during, and after childbirth. The intent is to ensure that support systems align with the needs and preferences of patients, thereby contributing to more satisfying childbirth experiences.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention may arise regarding the resources required for hospitals to implement these policies, as well as potential variations in how hospitals approach the integration of doulas into their maternity services. Some stakeholders may express concerns regarding the burden of compliance and training required for hospital staff to liaise effectively with doulas and their organizations. The success of this bill could significantly depend on the cooperation between healthcare facilities and doula networks, which may require ongoing dialogue and adjustment.