what is A MEDICAL DOULA PROFESSIONAL?

A "Spirit Midwife" or, "Medical Doula Professional" is a support person available to a dying individual and/or their family or friends. Their role is that of a non-medical (or medical) individual that supports the dying person's needs, spiritually, religiously, and culturally assisting them as they transition to the other side.  

what is the difference between a Medical Doula Professional and hospice care?

While both provide end-of-life support, hospice care focuses on medical needs and pain management, whereas doulas provide emotional, spiritual, and practical support.

Hospice Care: Provides primarily medical care. Involves a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and social workers, who focus on pain management, symptom control, and providing medical support. Hospice care also offers some emotional and spiritual support but is centered on the patient's medical needs.

Medical Doula Professional: Doulas offer non-medical, holistic support. They focus on emotional, spiritual, and practical aspects of the end-of-life journey. Doulas complement hospice care by providing additional layers of support, such as legacy projects, emotional counseling, and being present during the final hours.

CAN A DOULA HELP WITH GRIEF AFTER THE DEATH?

Yes, many Medical Doula Professionals extend their services to include bereavement support for families and loved ones after the death has occurred. This support can take various forms:

• Grief Counseling: Providing a safe space for expressing emotions and navigating the grieving process.

• Memorial Planning: Assisting with planning memorial services or celebrations of life.

• Legacy Projects: Helping family members create memory books, photo albums, or other keepsakes.

• Ongoing Emotional Support: Being available for follow-up meetings or calls to offer continued emotional support as needed.

DO ALL Medical Doula ProfessionalS HAVE THE SAME TRAINING?

No. Medical Doula Professional certification is not currently regulated. That means one could have no training other than a desire to help, be certified by a program such as The International Association of Professions (IAP), or a very limited exposure to the dying process. My training and certification is through the IAP, noted by CNN, and other news channels and magazines.

ARE END-OF-LIFE SERVICES COVERED BY INSURANCE?

No, but there is an advantage to that. Each patient's services are customized to fit their individualized needs and without a " cookie cutter" approach. Each life is different and so is the passing.

WHAT DOES An end-of-life COST?

Fees differ. As in any purchase for services, look for certifications and request a signed contract outlining services provided and references. Consider their training and references from previous clients.

WHEN SHOULD I CONTACT A Medical Doula Professional?

Medical Doula Professionals can be contacted at any phase of the dying process; however, it is an advantage to contact one as soon as possible, as they can alleviate stress from the many details needing attention so that the family can focus on the individual.