When and How to Bill HCPCS T1033 for Doula Labor and Delivery Support

When to Use HCPCS Code T1033

HCPCS T1033 is used for doula labor and delivery support services.
This code is recognized by multiple state Medicaid programs for in-person labor assistance provided by a certified or Medicaid-approved doula.

• •Service type: Doula support during labor and birth
• •When to bill: After the delivery event is completed
• •Who uses it: Certified or Medicaid-enrolled doulas

Common scenarios:

• •Continuous in-person support during active labor and delivery
• •Physical, emotional, and informational support throughout the birthing process
• •Doula presence at birth in hospitals, birthing centers, or home-birth settings

Medicaid Eligibility and Coverage Tips for T1033

1. •Confirm eligibility: Verify that the birthing parent is enrolled in Medicaid and that the state covers doula services.
2. •Provider requirements: Doula must be credentialed and linked to a supervising provider or facility when required.
3. •Billing format: Bill one unit per delivery (not time-based).
4. •Documentation: Maintain birth notes including location, start/end times, and type of support provided.
5. •Prior authorization: Some payers may require a referral or prior approval before labor attendance.

Pro tip: Include both mother’s Medicaid ID and, where applicable, newborn identifiers if required by your state’s claims process.

Example Case of T1033

A certified doula provides continuous labor and delivery support at a hospital for a Medicaid-enrolled client.
After the birth, the doula documents her services and bills one unit of T1033 for labor and delivery support under the state Medicaid doula program.