How to Become a Doula in Maryland (2026 Guide) — DNT Network Is Now an Officially Approved Training Organization
f you’re interested in becoming a doula in Maryland, there’s important and exciting news: DNT Network is now officially approved by the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) as a recognized doula training and certification organization. This approval allows DNT Network–trained doulas to pursue Maryland Medicaid enrollment and provide reimbursable doula services across the state.
Below is a clear, up-to-date guide on how to become a doula in Maryland, what Medicaid requires, and how DNT Network fits into the process.
Doula Services and Medicaid in Maryland
Maryland Medicaid covers doula services as part of its Maternal and Child Health programs, recognizing the role doulas play in supporting healthier pregnancies, births, and postpartum outcomes—especially for communities historically underserved by the healthcare system.
To provide Medicaid-reimbursable doula services in Maryland, individuals must complete training through a Maryland Department of Health–approved certification organization, then enroll as a Medicaid provider. Only certifications from approved organizations are accepted for Medicaid participation.
As of January 2026, DNT Network appears on Maryland Medicaid’s official list of approved doula certification organizations.
DNT Network Is Officially Approved by the Maryland Department of Health
DNT Network is now formally recognized by the Maryland Department of Health as an approved doula training organization for Medicaid enrollment purposes. Under Maryland’s requirements, DNT Network certifications meet the state’s criteria for:
Labor & Delivery (Birth) Doula Certification
Postpartum Doula Certification
This approval confirms that DNT Network’s curriculum, instructional hours, assessments, and professional standards align with Maryland Medicaid’s expectations for doula providers.
For Maryland-based students, this means you can complete your training fully online, at your own pace, and at an affordable cost, while still qualifying for Medicaid participation.
How to Become a Medicaid Doula Provider in Maryland
The general pathway to becoming a Medicaid doula provider in Maryland involves several steps.
First, you complete doula training through an MDH-approved organization, such as DNT Network. This includes coursework, structured evaluations, and certification aligned with Maryland’s standards.
Next, you apply to enroll as a Medicaid provider using Maryland’s ePREP system, the state’s online provider enrollment platform. During this step, you submit your certification documentation and required application materials.
Once enrolled, you review Maryland Medicaid’s billing guidance to understand how to submit claims and receive reimbursement for covered doula services.
DNT Network supports students by providing clear certification documentation and guidance tailored to state Medicaid requirements.
Birth Attendance Requirements in Maryland
Like many states, Maryland Medicaid has specific expectations for doulas who wish to provide reimbursable services. In Maryland, live birth attendance is enforced when required to comply with state Medicaid rules.
DNT Network fully complies with these requirements when they apply. However, what sets us apart is how we handle them.
Even when birth attendance is required for Medicaid compliance, DNT Network does not charge additional fees for:
Birth documentation verification
Processing or administrative review
Certification validation
There are no hidden costs or surprise charges later in the process. Our focus is compliance, clarity, and accessibility—not generating extra revenue through paperwork.
We also guide Maryland students clearly on when birth attendance applies, what documentation is needed, and how to meet those requirements efficiently.
Why Many Maryland Students Choose DNT Network
Beyond approval status, Maryland doulas choose DNT Network because of how the program is designed.
All courses are fully online and self-paced, with no expiration dates and no required travel. This makes training accessible for working parents, caregivers, and career-changers.
The curriculum is evidence-based and practice-focused, covering not only labor and postpartum support, but also communication skills, ethical practice, cultural humility, mental health awareness, and family-centered care—areas that are especially relevant for Medicaid-serving doulas.
Students also receive ongoing instructor and mentor support, helping them transition from training into real-world practice with confidence.
A Growing Opportunity for Doulas in Maryland
Maryland continues to expand access to doula services through Medicaid, creating meaningful opportunities for trained professionals to support families while building sustainable careers.
With DNT Network now officially approved by the Maryland Department of Health, aspiring doulas have a pathway that is recognized, affordable, and aligned with state Medicaid requirements—without unnecessary barriers or hidden fees.
If you’re considering becoming a doula in Maryland, or want to ensure your training qualifies for Medicaid participation, DNT Network is proud to support you every step of the way.
