UAMS, Ujima Celebrate Graduation of First Doula Class
| The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Institute for Community Health Innovation and Ujima Maternity Network recently celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of their comprehensive, joint doula certification program, recognizing more than 40 doulas who have received certification through the program.
Doulas are trained birth coaches who provide continuous emotional support before, during and after childbirth, aid informed decision-making during labor and delivery, assist with breastfeeding initiation and support, promote positive maternal mental health, and advocate for culturally sensitive care within health care systems. The use of doulas has been strongly advocated by the institute and other partners to improve maternal mortality rates across the state, and last year, the Arkansas General Assembly passed a law allowing doula services to be covered by Medicaid.
“The future of maternal health in Arkansas lies in innovative, community-based solutions, and doulas are playing a vital role in those solutions,” said Rosalinda Medrano, assistant director at the institute. “The women participating in this program are not only pursuing a new career path — they’re investing in the long-term health and well-being of their communities for generations to come.”
Trainees were provided scholarships to participate in the program, supported by the Arkansas Blue & You Foundation. The program includes 40 hours of in-person training with Ujima Maternity Network, a three-day virtual training with Birthing Beyond, a 45-hour Certified Breastfeeding Counselor course, and training in HIPAA and CPR. Trainees are also required to attend three live births to receive their doula certification.
“As a trainer, I’m incredibly proud of the women who stepped forward to become certified doulas in our state, women who sacrificed their time, energy and focus to fully commit to this work,” said Nicolle Fletcher, co-founder of Ujima Maternity Network. “They are the heart of this transformation and the reason Arkansas birth outcomes will change for the better.”
Ujima hosted a graduation ceremony Dec. 28 for individuals who obtained doula certification in 2025 at Christ Church in Little Rock.
To learn more about the UAMS Doula Expansion Initiative, visit uams.health/doula.