Frances Spreer Albert, CPA Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Financial Officer of Albany Medical Center | Albany Medical Health System
Frances Spreer Albert, CPA Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Financial Officer of Albany Medical Center | Albany Medical Health System
Erika Sorgen-Bull of Broadalbin experienced an unexpected moment when her water broke prematurely, ahead of her scheduled baby shower, prompting her to check into Albany Medical Center’s Birth Place nearly a month before her due date.
“I was worried that something might be wrong to cause my water to break early,” shared Sorgen-Bull.
Doula Mulasia Green provided support that afternoon. Doulas are trained professionals who deliver ongoing physical, emotional, and educational assistance before, during, and after childbirth. Their role includes helping with birthing positions, breathing techniques, changes to the birth plan, and breastfeeding support, while advocating for the patient. Sorgen-Bull, who initially considered hiring her own doula, found comfort in knowing the Birth Place offered this service as part of its staff.
“It was a huge blessing to have Mulasia come in and sit with us, talk about our birthing plan, and how I was doing,” Sorgen-Bull said. “She took the time to really get to know me and my husband and how we communicate so he could support me in the best way possible.”
Sorgen-Bull delivered a healthy baby boy named Geralt smoothly, crediting her positive connection with the doula.
Albany Med introduced the doula program in the summer of 2024, providing access to certified doulas at no additional cost. This initiative falls under a broader strategy by Albany Medical Center’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology to enhance childbirth experiences and outcomes. It aligns with the New York State Department of Health’s Birth Equity Improvement Project and seeks to reduce cesarean section rates with a focus on the Black birthing population.
“Doulas are one piece of the puzzle that helps us expand our commitment to enhancing patient experience in a way that is safe and equitable for all,” stated Rebecca Rogers, MD, the department chair. “We couldn’t offer this unique program without the generous support from local government and foundations and community members, and we are incredibly thankful.”
Funding for the program came from various grants and donations exceeding $2 million provided by the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, the Carl E. Touhey Foundation, the New York State Department of Health and State Assembly, the New York Health Foundation, Key Bank, and donors Enid Tanenhaus and Lewis Segal. This financial backing covers costs associated with doula salaries, training, equipment, and professional development.
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