The Transplant Doula founder, Michelle Montgomery, flew to Dallas, Texas, this past month to introduce attendees of the International Transplant Nurses Society Annual Symposium to transplant doulas. This presentation, titled “Transplant Doulas: Building Bridges Along the Transplant Care Continuum” was awarded ‘Most Innovative Abstract.’

The symposium brought together world-class transplant field leaders and team members, renowned experts, practitioners, and professionals from the transplant nursing community—none of whom had ever heard about transplant doulas before.

The presentation focused on three learning outcomes for attendees:

But Michelle won’t comment on what capacity, yet. Even with the newfound momentum and a growing network of supporters, she’s clear that she’s consciously choosing to keep the focus on finishing the core course development and expanding the elective courses provided to members for the remainder of the year. “I’m still creating the foundational aspects of who we are and what we stand for—and after that has had time to solidify, then I’ll set my sights on how we’ll develop long-lasting relationships with leaders in the field of transplantation. My priority, right now, is supporting the students we currently have…and opening the doors again for new students to join before January gets here.”

One thing is definitive: the opportunity to present at the 2023 Annual Symposium for the International Transplant Nurses Society was a highlight for Michelle—and she’s now fueled with a tsunami of energy for what’s next.

The essence of transplant doula care is to provide non-medical, holistic support and guidance to individuals and care circles through times of critical, transformative life change. Their role is to stand in the arena together with those they serve: to offer consistent presence and companionship, gather resources and share information, and to advocate for the needs, wants, boundaries, and expectations of the person they are serving.

Offerings vary by individual doula—some concentrate their focus on just a few specific issues and tasks; others provide a broad spectrum of services. Doulas will hold their own philosophies and approaches to the work, too.

There are no standardized fee schedules or structures for transplant doulas, as they vary greatly depending on the offering. Fees can be based on a package of services, by the hour, or by task. Currently, at least in the United States, Medicare and other insurance programs do not provide reimbursement. Therefore, any remuneration is usually done out of pocket as private pay. Doulas often require that some part of the fee be paid upfront as a non-refundable retainer. Although transplant doulas work independently, it’s possible that programs may begin to pop up through transplant centers and other community organizations where doulas may be volunteers, independent contractors, or employees who abide by approved standards and procedures set by each organization.

If you’re looking for free resources, you’re encouraged to explore other programs like transplant mentors and group support systems.

The following questions/considerations can be used to help you assess whether a transplant doula is the right fit for your needs and preferences during your transplant journey or living organ donation experience. Usually, the majority of these questions can be found on the doula’s website or through a client deck sent to you upon your request.  You want to be sure that you feel seen, heard, respected, and supported from the moment you first connect with the right transplant doula.

Selecting the right transplant doula is a pivotal decision that can greatly impact your transplant journey or living organ donation experience. By understanding the role of a transplant doula, identifying your needs and preferences, compiling a list of questions, researching, interviewing, assessing compatibility, and clarifying fees and agreements, you can make an informed choice that ensures you receive the support you need during this monumental transplant journey!