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The Impact of Virtual Doula Services on Birth Outcomes in Rural Communities
Sponsor: RAND
Summary
This study will assess the impact of virtual doula care on birth and postnatal outcomes among rural mothers. The goal of virtual doula services is to improve access to care in underserved communities and decrease urban-rural differences in key maternal health outcomes including mode of birth (cesarean vs vaginal) and birth satisfaction. By implementing a digital randomized controlled trial, the study team will efficiently recruit a national sample of rural pregnant women to provide evidence of the effectiveness of virtual doula care, the appropriateness of virtual visits for different care and support needs, and the role of virtual care in improving maternal health.
Key Details
Gender
FEMALE
Age Range
18 Years - 45 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
614
Start Date
2026-09
Completion Date
2029-12
Last Updated
2025-12-22
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Virtual doula support
Participants randomized to the intervention arm will receive access to up to 4 scheduled doula visits through Pacify's mobile phone app. All visits will be virtual. Participants may also access the library of resources on the app and text with their doula on demand.
Ebook
Participants will receive an ebook on parenting.
Locations (1)
RAND
Arlington, Virginia, United States