New Doula Training Program Aims to Improve Maternal and Infant Health in Rochester
Rochester, NY – Communities nationwide are recognizing the vital role community-based doulas play in promoting healthier pregnancies, more positive birth experiences, and stronger connections between families and care teams. Research shows doula support improves birth outcomes and raises satisfaction with care, with benefits that continue well beyond delivery.
That’s why Excellus BlueCross BlueShield and HealthConnect One launched a Community-Based Doula Training Program aimed at reducing inequities in maternal and infant health with a focus on communities that face the greatest disparities. By investing in training and reimbursing doula services, this partnership strengthens the local maternal health ecosystem and expands access to respectful, informed, supportive care throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
“This partnership has been over a year in the making,” said Kathleen Robischon, MD, vice president of medical affairs for clinical services at Excellus BCBS. “As an OB-GYN who grew up and practiced in Rochester, I’ve seen where our system falls short. Every birthing person deserves dignity and high‑quality care, and this program represents real community partnership and action.”
The Community-Based Doula Training Program is a 20‑week course that prepares 25 participants to become certified doulas. While doulas do not provide medical care, they work alongside clinical teams to offer emotional, physical, and informational support to birthing people and their families.
For participant Dana Finley, who has worked in community roles in Rochester for more than 20 years, the program offers both affirmation and a new opportunity to support families.
“This training is grounded in lived experience,” said Finley. “After years of serving this community, I’m excited to bring that knowledge to my work as a doula so families feel seen, supported, and respected throughout their birth journey.”
As a local nonprofit health plan, Excellus BCBS’ mission is to help people in our communities live healthier, more secure lives, and that starts with ensuring every birthing person has access to safe, supporting and culturally attuned care.
“Advancing maternal health equity is a core part of that mission. By investing in community-based doulas, we’re strengthening trusted relationships, elevating community expertise, and addressing the inequities that have persisted for far too long,” said Simone E. Edwards, DrPH, MPH, vice president of health equity and community investments at Excellus BCBS.
Together, Excellus BCBS and HealthConnect One are building on a proven national model that has strengthened maternal health outcomes in communities across the country.
“Our approach is rooted in collective wisdom and lived experience, centering the voices of those most affected by maternal and infant health disparities,” said Dr. Twylla Dillon, president and CEO of HealthConnect One. “As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we’re proud to bring our community-based doula program to Rochester to show what’s possible when local and national leaders unite to advance maternal health equity.”
To learn more about HealthConnect One and community-based doula programs, visit healthconnectone.org.
Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, is a nonprofit health plan with 1.5 million upstate New York members. The company's mission is to help people live healthier and more secure lives through access to high-quality, affordable health care. Its products and services include cost-saving prescription drug discounts, wellness tracking tools and access to telemedicine. With more than 4,200 employees, the company is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce to foster innovation and better serve its members. It also encourages employees to engage in their communities by providing paid volunteer time off as one of many benefits. To learn more, visit ExcellusBCBS.com.
About HealthConnect One
For more than 40 years, HealthConnect One has been a national leader in advancing birth equity by strengthening community-based care. The nonprofit partners with communities across the country to train and support doulas, community health workers, and advocates, using approaches rooted in lived experience and cultural knowledge. Through training, technical assistance, and collaboration, HealthConnect One helps build systems where birthing families are supported with dignity, respect, and connection. Learn more at healthconnectone.org.