Prenatal Education
Expecting a child is a life-changing experience, and having support during this journey can make all the difference. In recent years, many expectant parents in Germany have turned to doulas to provide emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. However, a common question arises: Is a doula covered by the German health insurance system? Let’s explore the status of doula services in Germany and whether they are eligible for insurance coverage.
Doulas are Non-Medical Providers
German health insurance primarily covers medically necessary services provided by licensed healthcare professionals. Since birth doulas offer non-medical support, their services are typically not covered by standard health insurance plans.
Private Health Insurance
Some private health insurance policies may offer supplementary coverage for doula services, but this varies widely among providers and plans. If you’re interested in having doula support and have private insurance, check with your insurer to see if they offer any coverage options.
Tax Deductions
While birth doula services may not be directly covered by health insurance, they may be eligible for tax deductions as a medical expense in some cases. Consult with a tax advisor to explore this possibility.
Postpartum Care
In some cases, individuals with specific medical conditions or unique circumstances may be able to make a case for postpartum doula services being medically necessary and thus covered by the health insurance. You can ask your gynecologist for a prescription for in-home support.
Get in touch to see if you may qualify for getting this support covered by your health insurance!