The word Doula comes from ancient Greek, and is translated to mean women servant. Doulas are not new, they have been around for years. Many years ago, when women exclusively gave birth at home, Birth Doula’s (known as midwives) were used to provide guidance, physical, and emotional support to women throughout their pregnancy. They gained popularity again in the 1970’s and 80’s. Today, Doulas are being used in a different role. The question has been asked if people have guidance entering the world, why don’t they have the same guidance leaving the world. Hence, the End of Life Doula was born. According to a study released by the National Institute of Health (NIH), “Death and Dying in America,” there is a need for health care to move towards a person and family centered approach towards death, an increase in education for the end of life process, higher standards for advanced care planning, better trained end of life providers, and a need to revamp and recognize payment systems to support high quality end of life care.
Why are Doulas so important? The reality is that although hospice is an invaluable service, the average hospice nurse is allowed only one hour of bedside service per visit, most of which is spent documenting the visit. This leaves little time for education on comfort, disease process, transition, and the active dying process. Hospice has a network of volunteers, but there are limits on what they can do. Additionally, the average volunteer visit is 30-45 minutes per week. This does not always provide the adjunct support necessary for a patient and their family during one of the most stressful times in their life. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) has developed an advisory board supporting Doulas as a “compliment to the already amazing care offered by hospice”. Today, more and more people are choosing to die at home, with their family and without restrictions on who can be there, and when. Doulas provide education and the peace of mind necessary for people to die with grace, comfort, and dignity.
Judith Arasi - End of Life Doula 