Doulas are allied healthcare professionals providing advice on lactation and other matters regarding pregnancy. Being a doula can be a rewarding career, but it comes with risks. Accidents and incidents can happen during childbirth, which is why doulas need to have insurance coverage. In this article, we will explore the different types of doula insurance policies, and discuss the coverage limits, costs, and add-ons for each type of insurance.
Yes, doulas generally need insurance coverage. While it may not be a legal requirement in all jurisdictions, having insurance is strongly recommended for doulas to protect themselves and their clients in case of unforeseen events.
Insurance not only safeguards doulas in the event of legal claims or lawsuits but also provides reassurance to clients who may prefer to work with a doula with the appropriate coverage. If a doula covered by insurance makes a mistake or runs into an unexpected situation, they won't lose their assets to a lawsuit.
Doulas need to consult with insurance providers or professional doula associations in their region to understand the specific insurance requirements and options available to them.
| CoverWallet | NEXT (Best) | Thimble | Hiscox | The Hartford | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per occurrence limit | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 | $2,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 |
| Aggregate limit | $2,000,000 | $2,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 | $2,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 |
| Products and completed operations aggregate limit | $2,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $2,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 |
| Advertising injury coverage aggregate limit | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $2,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 |
| Tenant’s legal liability coverage limit | $300,000/$1,000,000 | $300,000 | $100,000 | $100,000 | $1,000,000 |
| Waiver of subrogation included? | Yes | No | Included | Can be included | No |
| Hired/non-owned auto liability coverage included? | Yes | No | No | Can be included | Can be included |
| Equipment breakdown floater included? | No | Yes | Yes | Can be included | Can be included |
| Can you get a certificate of insurance online? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Name additional insureds? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Deductible | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
To minimize the risk of business loss in case of an unforeseen incident, including general liability coverage in your bundled policy is crucial. This type of coverage is widely recognized as one of the most vital components of business insurance, as it is relied upon by companies across various industries. The reality is that any business can face the possibility of legal action and the associated financial obligations resulting from accidents attributed to their operations. The insurance covers claims for bodily injuries, property damage, libel, and copyright infringement.
The coverage limits can range from $100,000 to $2,000,000, depending on the insurance provider and the specific policy. You can use this to cover legal expenses, medical expenses, settlements, and other related costs.
Professional liability insurance–This coverage protects doulas against claims of negligence, errors, or omissions related to their professional services
Cyber liability insurance–Protects against data breaches, cyber-attacks, and other technology-related risks that may affect a doula's business
General liability insurance for doulas is not typically required by law, but many hospitals, birth centers, and clients may require doulas to have this coverage.
| CoverWallet | NEXT | Thimble (Best) | Hiscox | The Hartford | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per occurrence limit | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 |
| Aggregate limit | $2,000,000 | $2,000,000 | $1,000,000/$2,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $2,000,000 |
| Name additional insureds? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Waiver of subrogation included? | Yes | No | Yes | Can be included | No |
| HIPAA coverage included? | No | No | No | No | No |
| Sexual misconduct coverage included? | No | No | No | No | Can be included |
| License defense coverage included? | No | No | No | No | Can be included |
| Deductible | $500 | $500 | $500 | $50/$10,000 | $500 |
Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance protects doulas from claims against them for mistakes or negligence. This insurance is important for doulas who provide professional services to expectant mothers and their families as it provides financial protection in case of errors or omissions.
Coverage limits for E&O insurance for doulas can range from $100,000 to $2 million or more, depending on the insurance carrier and the level of coverage required by the doula.
Providing incorrect medical advice that causes harm to the mother or baby
Failing to identify a significant medical condition or allergy that causes harm to the mother or the baby
A doula provides services outside the scope of their training or certification
A situation where a doula's advice leads a mother to select a childbirth method that causes harm
Doula malpractice insurance and errors and omissions insurance safeguard doulas from harming clients. Both plans cover legal fees and compensation if a doula is proven negligent or guilty of professional misconduct. "Errors and omissions insurance" and "malpractice insurance" are sometimes used interchangeably, reflecting the doula's professional liability focus.
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| CoverWallet | NEXT (Best) | Thimble | Hiscox | The Hartford | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building coverage limit (minimum) | $50,000 | $260,000 | $25,000/$500,000 | $25,000 | $60,000 |
| Contents coverage limit (minimum) | $50,000 | $22,000 | $25,000/$500,000 | $25,000 | $60,000 |
| Outdoor signs | Excluded | $2,500 | Excluded | Excluded | Excluded |
| Accounts receivable | Excluded | Excluded | $5,000/10,000 | Included | Excluded |
| Money and securities | Excluded | $2,500 | $1,000 | Included | Excluded |
| Lock and keys | Excluded | $2,500 | Excluded | Excluded | Excluded |
| Business interruption floater | Excluded | Included | Included | Included | Excluded |
| Equipment breakdown floater | Excluded | Included | Excluded | Excluded | Excluded |
| Inland marine insurance floater | Excluded | Excluded | $10,000 | Excluded | Excluded |
| Employee dishonesty floater | Excluded | $5,000 | $2,500 | Included | Excluded |
Commercial property insurance covers a business's physical assets against damage or loss. This policy covers their office equipment, supplies, furniture, and other business property.
The coverage limit for doulas can vary depending on the insurance provider. The coverage typically ranges from $10,000 to $100,000 or more.
Theft of equipment or supplies
Damage to property due to natural disasters, such as fire, flood, or lightning
Vandalism or other malicious acts that cause property damage
Income loss as a result of covered property damage causing business interruption
Equipment breakdown coverage covers the repair or replacement of equipment that breaks down due to a mechanical or electrical failure
Data breach coverage covers the costs of notifying affected individuals and providing credit monitoring services in the event of a data breach
The reasonable coverage limit for your commercial property insurance policy will depend on several factors, including the value of your business property, the level of risk associated with your business operations, and your budget. Working with an insurance agent or broker specializing in commercial property insurance for doulas is important to help you determine the appropriate coverage limit.
| CoverWallet | NEXT (Best) | Thimble | Hiscox | The Hartford | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building coverage limit (minimum) | $50,000 | $260,000 | $25,000/$500,000 | $25,000 | $60,000 |
| Contents coverage limit (minimum) | $50,000 | $22,000 | $25,000/$500,000 | $25,000 | $60,000 |
| Outdoor signs | Excluded | $2,500 | Excluded | Excluded | Excluded |
| Accounts receivable | Excluded | Excluded | $5,000/10,000 | Included | Excluded |
| Money and securities | Excluded | $2,500 | $1,000 | Included | Excluded |
A business owner's policy (BOP) is a type of insurance policy designed for small business owners that combines general liability insurance and commercial property insurance in one policy. By bundling these two coverages, a BOP can often be purchased at a lower premium than if the coverages were purchased separately.
Coverage limits for a BOP differ based on the size of the business and the specific risks it faces. Generally, coverage limits range from $500,000 to $2 million.
If a client slips and falls in the doula's office and suffers an injury, leading to a lawsuit
A fire or other disaster damages the doula's office or equipment, causing the business to shut down temporarily
A data breach occurs, and the doula's electronic records are compromised
Professional liability insurance covers against claims of negligence or errors in providing professional services
Employment practices liability insurance to protect against claims of discrimination, harassment, or wrongful termination by employees
A BOP can include business interruption insurance, which can cover a business's lost income and expenses that have to shut down temporarily due to a covered loss, such as a fire or natural disaster.
| NEXT | Thimble | Hiscox | The Hartford | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aggregate limit | $3,000/$10,000 | $2,500/$5,000 | $15,000/$25,000 | $5,000-$10,000 |
| Covers hired and borrowed equipment? | $3,000/$10,000 | $2,500/$5,000 | No | Yes |
| Miscellaneous equipment also covered? | $5,000/$10,000 | No | Yes | Yes |
| Offered as an endorsement to general liability insurance? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Deductible | $500 | $500 | $0 | $0 |
Tools and equipment insurance provides financial protection in case of unexpected events that could result in losing or damaging your essential tools and equipment. This coverage extends to baby scales, educational materials, and other equipment vital to your doula practice.
Whether your equipment is stolen, lost, or accidentally damaged, tools and equipment insurance can help cover the cost of repair or replacement, ensuring that you can continue providing care to your clients.
Tools and equipment insurance offers $5,000-$25,000 coverage for repair or replacement expenses.
Off-premises coverage–This add-on extends coverage beyond your primary location. It protects your tools and equipment while working off-site, such as attending client appointments or workshops. It ensures that your assets are covered even when you are away from your usual place of business
Replacement cost coverage–Standard coverage typically reimburses you for the actual cash value of your lost or damaged items, considering depreciation. However, with replacement cost coverage, your insurance will cover the cost of replacing your tools and equipment with new items of similar kind and quality without factoring in depreciation
It depends on the specific policy and the insurance provider. Some policies may include coverage for rented or borrowed equipment, while others may not. It's important to review the policy details carefully and ask your insurance provider about any specific items you plan to rent or borrow to ensure they are covered under the policy.
As a doula, providing client support and care is at the core of your work. However, it's essential to acknowledge that accidents or injuries can happen, even in the course of your profession.
To protect yourself and your employees, it's essential to consider workers compensation insurance. Workers' compensation insurance is designed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs in the event of work-related injuries or illnesses.
Return-to-work programs–Some insurance providers may offer return-to-work programs as an add-on. These programs provide support and resources to facilitate the return of injured employees to the workplace. They may include rehabilitation services, job modifications, and vocational training to minimize the impact of the injury on the employee's ability to work
If you are a sole proprietor without any employees, you may be able to opt out of workers compensation insurance in some states. However, it is important to check your state's laws and regulations to ensure that you are compliant.
Excess Liability Insurance, also known as Umbrella Insurance, is a type of policy that provides additional coverage beyond the limits of a primary insurance policy. This insurance is designed to protect Doulas against large liability claims that exceed the limits of their primary insurance policy.
The coverage limits for Excess Liability Insurance can range from $1 million to $10 million or more, depending on the needs of the Doula and the requirements of their clients.
If a Doula is sued for malpractice and the damages awarded exceed the limits of their professional liability policy
In case underlying insurance policies have reached their coverage limits but there are still outstanding claims or lawsuits against the business
Doulas should consider the coverage limits and any exclusions or limitations of the policy when choosing an excess liability policy. They should also consider the cost of the policy and any add-ons that may be necessary to provide the additional protection they need.
In today's digital age, where sensitive information is stored and transmitted electronically, protecting your client's data and your own business from cyber threats is of utmost importance.
As a doula, you may handle personal and confidential information about your clients, making you a potential target. Cyber liability insurance is designed to help mitigate the financial and reputational risks of cyber incidents.
The coverage limits for doulas typically range from $100,000 to $1 million, depending on the insurance provider and the specific needs of the doula business.
Website attacks–Website attacks, such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS), can cause website downtime and disrupt business operations
Ransomware attacks–Ransomware is malware that encrypts a victim's data and demands a ransom payment to release it
Phishing and scams–Phishing emails or phone calls are designed to trick individuals into divulging sensitive information or transferring funds to fraudulent accounts
Privacy breach response–Helps cover the costs of responding to and managing a privacy breach
Media liability–Protects a doula against claims of defamation, libel, slander, or copyright infringement resulting from media content posted on the company's website or social media channels
Network interruption–Covers the loss of income and additional expenses incurred due to a network interruption or failure
Any business that stores or handles sensitive client information, such as personal health or financial data, can benefit from Cyber Liability Insurance. This includes doula businesses that collect and store client information, such as medical histories and insurance information.
Postpartum doulas are crucial in supporting new mothers and their families postpartum. As a postpartum doula covered by insurance, you provide valuable assistance with newborn care, breastfeeding support, emotional well-being, and household tasks. While you focus on helping families adjust to their new lives, protecting yourself and your business with postpartum doula insurance is essential. The coverage options can go up to $2 million per claim.
As a postpartum doula, you likely use various tools and equipment, such as breastfeeding supplies, baby scales, or educational materials. Postpartum doula insurance can cover loss, theft, or damage to your personal property and equipment. This coverage ensures that you can replace essential items without incurring significant financial burdens.
| Cost per Month | Cost per Year | Deductible | |
|---|---|---|---|
| General liability insurance | $28 | $336 | $0-$500 |
| Professional liability insurance | $46 | $552 | $1,000-$2,000 |
| Commercial property insurance | $60 | $720 | $1,000-$2,000 |
| Business owner's policy | $72 | $864 | $1,500 |
| Tools and equipment insurance | $31 | $372 | $500-$1,000 |
| Commercial auto insurance | $63 | $756 | $500-$1,000 |
| Workers compensation insurance | $87 | $1,044 | $2,500-$5,000 |
| Cyber liability insurance | $75 | $900 | $500-$1,000 |
| Excess liability insurance | $35 | $420 | $500-$1,000 |
The average doula insurance cost is $28 per month or $336 per year for a $1 million general liability policy. The cost of doula insurance can vary depending on coverage type, location, years of experience, etc. Here’s a table showing the cost of a $1 million general liability policy from the best companies:
| Cost per Month | Cost per Year | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| NEXT | $12 | $144 | Best overall; Fastest general liability insurance for doulas |
| CoverWallet | $15 | $180 | Comparing doula insurance quotes online |
| The Hartford | $17 | $204 | Workers compensation insurance for doulas |
| Tivly | $19 | $228 | Comparing doula insurance quotes over the phone |
| Thimble | $21 | $252 | On-demand insurance coverage |
| Hiscox | $23 | $276 | Customizable policies and financial stability |
Get all the best quotes from leading providers in a click of a button!
As a doula, it's essential to have proper insurance coverage in case of any accidents, incidents, or malpractice claims. There are several insurance companies that cover doulas, and it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. These are the companies we recommend. Read some of the reviews below to know their pros, cons, and average rate for a $1 million general liability policy.
Best overall
Issues an online proof of insurance instantly
Fastest general liability insurance for doulas
Great customer service and reputation
Excellent rates
Outstanding value for money
Get a 10% discount if you buy two or more policies
Couldn’t find any
By choosing NEXT, doulas can benefit from flexible coverage options designed to provide financial protection in the face of accidents, injuries, property damage, or claims of professional negligence.
Whether protecting against liability claims or safeguarding valuable equipment, NEXT strives to provide doulas with peace of mind, knowing that their businesses are adequately protected.
To learn more about the insurance solutions offered by NEXT for doulas, it is recommended to visit their official website or contact their customer service representatives for detailed information and personalized assistance.
Best for: Best overall; Fastest general liability insurance for doulas
Average cost: $12 per month
Our rating: 10/10
CoverWallet offers comprehensive insurance products designed for small and medium-sized enterprises. Whether it's general liability insurance, professional liability insurance, property insurance, or workers' compensation, CoverWallet has options to cover various business risks
CoverWallet provides dedicated customer support to assist businesses throughout the insurance process. Whether answering questions, helping with policy management, or guiding the claims process, their team can provide assistance and support when needed.
Not an insurance company but an insurance broker
CoverWallet is an online insurance broker that provides small businesses with a streamlined and user-friendly way to manage their insurance needs. The platform provides access to a wide range of insurance products, including general liability insurance, professional liability accurately y insurance, workers' compensation insurance, commercial property insurance, and more
Best for: Comparing doula insurance quotes online
Average cost: $15 per month
Our rating: 10/10
Comprehensive coverage options for doulas
Affordable pricing and financial stability
Renowned company for workers compensation insurance
Limited add-ons to general liability insurance
The Hartford is a well-established insurance provider that offers various insurance coverage options. The company has been in business for over 200 years and has an A+ rating from A.M. Best, indicating excellent financial stability.
Best for: Workers compensation insurance for doulas
Average cost: $17 per month
Our rating: 10/10
Customizable policies for businesses
Risk management tools to help reduce liability
Partnered with over 200 providers.
You need to call to compare quotes
Tivly offers a comprehensive range of business insurance options, encompassing general liability, commercial property, and workers' compensation insurance. This platform is particularly beneficial for business owners seeking efficiency and cost-effectiveness, as it facilitates connections with insurance providers that align with their specific requirements, ultimately saving them time and money. Call now to compare quotes over the phone.
Best for: Comparing doula insurance quotes over the phone
Average cost: $19 per month
Our rating: 9/10
Thimble aims to provide cost-effective insurance solutions. By offering flexible coverage options and customizable plans, you can choose the level of coverage that suits your budget
Flexible option for those who may not need coverage year-round
Hourly pricing can add up quickly for more extended events or sessions
Thimble offers short-term liability insurance policies that can be tailored to specific business activities or events. The coverage can be purchased by the hour, day, week, or month, allowing users to have insurance precisely when they need it. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for freelancers, contractors, and gig workers with varying project durations and insurance requirements.
Best for: On-demand insurance coverage
Average cost: $21 per month
Our rating: 9/10
Hiscox is a well-established insurance company with a strong reputation for quality and expertise
Hiscox provides a broad spectrum of insurance products, including professional liability insurance, general liability insurance, property insurance, cyber insurance, and more
Hiscox offers resources to help businesses understand and mitigate potential risks. They offer information, recommendations, and tools to help organizations manage risks and reduce claims and losses
Online quoting not available all the time due to periodic site maintenance
Hiscox is an international specialist insurance company that provides individuals with a wide range of insurance products and services. Hiscox has a strong presence in several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe, serving diverse industries and sectors. It has a reputation for its expertise in underwriting complex risks and has established itself as a trusted insurance provider.
Best for: Customizable policies and financial stability
Average cost: $23 per month
Our rating: 9/10
Affordable annual premium compared to other insurance providers
Comprehensive coverage for various types of liabilities and property damage
No online application process, only via phone or email
Limited add-on coverage options compared to other insurance providers
CM&F Group is an insurance provider that offers coverage options for healthcare professionals, including doulas. Their doula insurance policy covers general and professional liability, property damage, and medical payments.
CM&F is a specialized provider offering postpartum doula insurance. Their insurance coverage is specifically designed to cater to your unique requirements. With a focus on safeguarding your assets, license, and professional reputation, CM&F's exceptional professional liability insurance gives postpartum birth doulas a sense of security and tranquility.
Best for: Affordable coverage with comprehensive protection
Average cost: $33 per month
Our rating: 9/10
1 / 5
Use anyone except Employers. Period. They are non-transparent and shameful. After I complained long enough to warrant a call from a supervisor, the supervisor called back from a PRIVATE NUMBER (no caller ID), left a message that they are not reversing their decision (without any communication with me), and failed to leave a phone number for me to call back. She was hiding! They also fact find via email and phone calls, which is terrific for speed and communication. However, after setting a precedence of email or phone calls, they send time sensitive information via email, without any heads up... they are hoping you miss it and forfeit via expiration. Evil policies. Go elsewhere.
1 / 5
This place is an absolute joke of a company and should be ashamed of the way they conduct business. I was hurt on the job at the end of July and it took them just shy of 7 weeks to issue out a paycheck to me. Yes the amount was back dated but still. Not many have the luxury of not receiving a paycheck for almost 2 months. To top it all off, the original adjuster marked me down for the wrong state which caused a problem from the get go, I've had 3 different adjusters now since each one can't seem to figure out the simplicity of my claim. All my paperwork which includes, my job, house, and drs visits all are from the same state and city but yet some how I have been filed under a completely different state 1500 miles away. They do not answer your phone calls or emails no matter how many you leave. I've had to escalate my frustrations to the supervisors of each of these individuals in order to even get some kind of response. I've had more communication and information given to me about my claim from the customer service representatives then the actual adjusters.......... please tell me how that works?! A serious overhaul needs to happen here in order to serve your clients the way they deserve to be taken care of. 10/10 do not recommend this company to a single soul on earth
1 / 5
I have never had the displeasure of working with a more incompetent and disrespectful person in my life. I’m an injured worker and the adjuster that was assigned to my case was named Carrie Furgeson. In the past 6 weeks that I’ve been injured and out of work I have only been able to get ahold of her twice, not for lack of trying. I have left countless voicemails, countless emails, and she ignores them all. When I am finally able to get ahold of her I’m greeted with terrible customer service. She is rude, she talks over me and I’m hardly able to get a word in edgewise. She spelled my name wrong on my documents even after I spelled it for her properly countless times, this caused a whole new issue with my bank. I have bill collectors from the hospital calling me demanding payment and Carrie Furgeson won’t do a single thing to help, or to get them paid. All of my documentation is in Colorado, my job is in Colorado, my address is in Colorado, all my Dr offices and appointments have been in Colorado and Carrie still managed to hold my claim because she wasn’t sure what state she needed to file it under. It’s been 6 weeks since my Injury and my company still hasn’t received the wage paperwork to fill out so they can get me my correct wages. When she’s not ignoring me she’s answering my questions with “I don’t know” well I don’t know how she got this job, because apparently she doesn’t know anything about it. She is a disgusting morose individual inside and out and I genuinely wish her the worst in all of her future endeavors. I highly recommend you don’t use this company. Please if you are a business owner and your looking into this company please don’t use them. I’m sure they have the cheapest payment and that’s why companies use them in the first place, but you will be doing your employees a grave disservice by forcing them to venture into this absolute dumpster fire of a company. I would rate 0/5 if possible but 1 was the lowest I was allowed.
5 / 5
Their general liability insurance purchase process is simply the best online experience I've ever had in my life!
5 / 5
As long as they cover your line of business, you're literally covered! best rates, best coverage, best online experience, best professionals, can't be happier that I chose them!
Not all those who wander are lost.
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