by Paulina Perez and Deaun Thelen
1998, 190 pages, paperback EP9841

The authors of this book have done an excellent job of breaking down the enormous task of beginning a doula program into a very realistic and workable framework. Paulina Perez and Deaun Thelen begin by making it clear to readers that beginning a doula program is not right for everyone. Those individuals who do establish doula programs must be the "innovators who are venturesome, have tremendous energy, tolerate risk and are willing to learn."

The authors point out that today, hospital programs need innovative ideas and that doula programs are a concept that today's maternity consumers will seek out. The book then goes on to explain in detail the steps that should be considered for both private individuals beginning programs as well as the considerations necessary to begin a hospital-based program.

Goal-setting for the program is discussed as one of the first steps for consideration in developing the program. Long-term as well as short-term goals should be devised that spell out the reason you are developing the program. Identification of the needs of the maternity market in the area is a critical part of the goal-setting process. A statement of purpose can then be designed that identifies your beliefs and goals for the program. Throughout the book, questions are posed by the authors to help guide your decisions. For instance, during the goals-setting stage of development, questions asked include "Will you work with the family as a whole in your service or do you primarily plan to support just the mother?" and "Can you support teen mothers?" A concise mission statement should then be developed, describing the types of services you will be offering, that fits the market you plan to serve.

A doula service is a business, with all the serious considerations necessary for business ownership. Wages, tax considerations, funding of the program, expenses, licenses and marketing are all covered by Perez and Thelen. Questions posed in these chapters include: "Should you hire a consultation service to guide your program?" "How do you train your employees?" and "What is a business plan and why do I need one?" A troubleshooting chapter is included to help ward off problems before they occur. Many other key topics are covered throughout the book. The appendix could stand as a book in itself, it is so well done, with reading lists, resource guides, and samples of most every business form of paperwork you should be considering in the development of the program.

This book is an invaluable resource tool for any individual or hospital desiring to offer or begin a doula program. The book is comprehensive and the chapters flow well, describing each consideration for beginning a program, all done in wording and directives that are easily understood.

Reviewed by Carol Angello, RN, BSN, ICCE, Canton, Ohio USA