November 4, 2026
End-of-life and death doulas provide nonclinical support to individuals and families navigating serious illness, dying, death, and grief. As awareness of this work grows, an important conversation continues to develop: How can doulas become more effectively connected with healthcare, hospice, and palliative care systems?
The conversation is not simply about introducing doulas into healthcare settings. It is about understanding their professional role, establishing appropriate boundaries, and exploring how they can work alongside physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and other members of the care team.
Healthcare professionals and death doulas may share a commitment to supporting individuals and families, but their responsibilities are different. Doulas do not replace clinical care. Their contributions may include emotional support, companionship, education, practical guidance, and helping individuals and families communicate their needs and preferences.
The question is not whether doulas should become healthcare professionals. It is how their distinct nonclinical role can complement existing systems of care.
A Perspective Informed by Research
My graduate research in thanatology examined the integration of end-of-life and death doulas into healthcare systems. Through that work, I explored the opportunities and challenges surrounding professional role recognition, collaboration, scope of practice, and the structures needed to support integration.
That research continues to inform my interest in how doulas and healthcare professionals can work together while maintaining their distinct responsibilities.
Questions Shaping the Conversation
Several questions deserve continued attention:
- How can healthcare professionals develop a clearer understanding of the end-of-life and death doula role?
- What opportunities exist for collaboration, communication, and appropriate referrals?
- How can professional boundaries be maintained while supporting continuity of care?
- What volunteer, employment, independent practice, and community partnership models are emerging?
- What education, mentorship, and organizational structures are needed to support sustainable integration?
These questions extend beyond individual doula practice. They invite broader discussion about professional identity, healthcare relationships, and the future of end-of-life support.
Continuing the Conversation
Through From the Field, we will examine emerging practices, professional experiences, and the ongoing development of death doula integration into healthcare.
The goal is to encourage informed discussion about how doulas and healthcare professionals can work together while respecting their distinct roles and responsibilities.