Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

2-11-2026

Comments

Presented at the 2026 Scholarly Inquiry (SI) Research Project Symposium.

Abstract

Introduction: Despite demonstrated improvement in birth outcomes, continuous labor support with a doula is underutilized due to access limitations. As a large academic medical center in Philadelphia, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital (TJUH) can reduce disparities in access with a student-led volunteer doula program. This project aims to create such a program.

Methods: A literature review was conducted to assess the effectiveness of existing hospital-based volunteer doula programs. Programs at the University of California and the University of North Carolina, as successful programs at academic medical centers, were adapted to be student-run. The program was presented to clinical and nursing leadership at TJUH Labor and Delivery to gauge support and receive feedback. Once implemented, feedback will be collected from patients for longitudinal improvement.

Results: TJUH leadership expressed strong support for the program and believe that patients will benefit from it. Their feedback inspired the program design to meet the specific needs of the patient population. The program is currently pending approval with the university’s Office of Student Life and Engagement to become a recognized student organization.

Discussion/ Conclusions: The creation of a student-led volunteer doula program at TJUH is supported by clinical and nursing leadership. The primary challenge in establishing the program is obtaining sustainable funding to train each cohort of volunteers. However, alternate options have been identified, including a certified doula who will volunteer her time to provide training. The program is expected to increase access to continuous labor support, thereby improving patient care while also expanding clinical learning opportunities.

Additional Files
Radvar_Halleh_poster.pdf (1666 kB)

Language

English

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