Sliding Scale Fee Structure for Doula Services
Why sliding scale?
A sliding scale fee structure is a tool that allows me to offer my services at multiple price points in order to meet the varying financial and life circumstances of my clients. The multitude of inequalities that exist in our society and the lack of insurance coverage for doula services make it inaccessible for many folks. My fees are also reflective of my own needs to care for my family and pay my bills. I trust that you, the client, are honest with identifying where you fit on the scale. I do not ask for income verification. I recognize that the low cost can still be too high for some people, if this is you, please contact me to start a discussion.
Birth Doula Services Fee:
True cost: $2,000
Middle cost: $1,850
Low cost: $1,600
Virtual Birth Doula Services Fee:
True Cost: $1,200
Postpartum Doula Services Fee:
True cost: $45/hr
Middle cost: $40/hr
Low cost: $35/hr
Abortion Doula Services Fee:
$0-$40/hr Pay what you can
The Scale:
The highest dollar cost reflects the true cost of the service. It is the cost that I would charge in the absence of a sliding scale. If you have access to financial security, own property or have personal savings, you would not traditionally qualify for sliding scale services. If you are able to pay for "wants" and spend little time worried about securing necessities in your life, you have economic privilege and power in our community. This price is for you.
The middle cost acknowledges that paying the full cost would prevent some folks from being able to afford services, but who do not honestly find themselves reflected in either descriptions for the highest cost or the lowest. If you are struggling to conquer debt or build savings or move away from paycheck to paycheck living but have access to steady income and are not spending most of your time thinking about meeting basic needs such as food, shelter, medical care, child care, etc., you belong here. If you, however, can ask others for financial support, such as family members, partners, or friends, please consider using those personal resources before you use the resources of the sliding scale and limit opportunities for others.
The low cost acknowledges that there are folks whose economic circumstances would prevent them from having a doula if there was not be a deliberate opportunity made for them to access services at a cost that is reflective of their economic realities. If you struggle to maintain access to needs such as health care, housing, food, child care, and are living paycheck to paycheck or are in significant debt, you belong probably belong here and you deserve a community that honors your price as equal an economic offering as the person who can pay the highest tier. Even when the lower tier is still prohibitive, I will work with folks to offer extended payment plans and other solutions.
Payment Plans:
I also offer payment plans for all services.
Gift Certificates:
Gift certificates are available for all services. It’s a great item to add to your registry. To purchase or inquire about gift giving or receiving gift certificates, email carling@chesapeakebirth.com.
Credit: Worts + Cunning Apothecary
