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Become a Doula

How to become a MercyOne volunteer birth doula

The first step in becoming a MercyOne volunteer birth doula is completing the Doula and Labor Support Workshop.

After attending this workshop, you will need to schedule a meeting with Jennifer Callahan, MercyOne Volunteer Birth Doula Coordinator. If it is mutually agreed that you would be a good candidate to be a volunteer birth doula, you’ll need to complete the following steps:

Step 1: Attend a MercyOne Volunteer Informational Session

All prospective volunteers must attend an hour-long Volunteer Informational Session where you’ll meet staff from MercyOne Volunteer Services and learn more about the application process. Volunteer Informational Session are conveniently offered at a variety of times and locations throughout the year. For a list of upcoming Informational Session, you may contact the Volunteer Services office at (515) 247-3246 or visit. www.mercydesmoines.org/ volunteers.

Seating is limited and pre-registration is required.

Step 2: Complete a MercyOne volunteer application

At the Volunteer Informational Session, you’ll receive a volunteer application. Once you have completed and submitted the application, MercyOne will then complete thorough background checks. Those with felony convictions cannot be accepted into MercyOne’s volunteer program. Individuals with other types of records are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Step 3: Interview, health screen and orientation

After clearing the background checks, you must also complete:

  • An interview with MercyOne Volunteer Services to discuss your skills, experience and availability.
  • A New Volunteer Health Screening to protect the health and well-being of MercyOne’s volunteers, staff, patients and visitors, including a review of your health history, administering of the tuberculosis (TB) skin test and review of your immunization history. The health screening is provided at no cost to you.
  • New Volunteer Orientation to learn more about MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center and how you will support the mission as a volunteer.
  • New Volunteer Birth Doula Orientation with the doula coordinator. The doula coordinator will meet with you to introduce you to your role as a new team member of the Mother/Baby Unit. During orientation, policies, code of ethics and required documentation will be discussed. You will also meet the Mother/Baby staff and tour the unit.

For more information, contact Jennifer Callahan at (515) 358-5060 or jcallahan@mercydesmoines.org.

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