Researcher ORCID Identifier

0009-0007-2984-9541

Graduation Year

2026

Document Type

Open Access Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Economics

Reader 1

Sean Flynn

Reader 2

Nayana Bose

Rights Information

Miriam Akhmetshin

Abstract

While the U.S. spends more per-capita than any country on healthcare, we experience the worst maternal health outcomes of high-income nations. In addition to hefty healthcare bills, an overwhelming majority of mothers experience pregnancy-related health issues that decrease productivity and utility. Thus, it is critical to research cost-effective solutions that can improve maternal health and promote equitable outcomes. Doulas are trained non-medical professionals who support mothers and families before, during and after birth. As a growing body of medical literature points to the role of doulas in decreasing costly medical interventions, insurance companies have begun covering their services. In 2014, Oregon was one of the first two states to cover doulas under its state Medicaid plan. Using Oregon natality data from the period 2010-2019, I estimate a difference-in-difference regression to estimate the effect of the program’s founding in 2014 and first rate increase in 2017 on maternal health outcomes. These models also offer a valuable glimpse at overall levels of health and equity in the state. Though I do not find significant treatment effects from this basic model, further research of this promising intervention is urgently needed.

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