Throughout 2024, there was a steady increase in the number of feedback instances reported by doulas at CDI sites, especially between Q1 and Q4. Early in the year, feedback was limited, in part because there wasn’t a consistent structure or expectation for doulas to formally report their experiences. Many were unsure about when, where, or how to share feedback, and some may have felt hesitant without a clear process in place. As the year progressed, SisterWeb implemented clearer systems—like using Asana reminders and reinforcing the importance of post-birth reflections—to normalize feedback as a routine part of the work. This cultural shift helped doulas feel more confident and supported in sharing their insights, leading to a noticeable increase in reporting by the end of the year.

Key partners in this effort include the CDI program leads, SisterWeb's internal leadership, and clinical contacts at each hospital site who are open to hearing and acting on feedback. Nurse managers and engaged midwives can serve as important liaisons by receiving the feedback and helping integrate it into workflow improvements. Internally, supervisors and program coordinators play a critical role in encouraging doulas to document their observations and validating that their voices are central to improving care quality and hospital relationships.

The introduction of structured systems like Asana reminders and post-birth debriefs helped make the feedback process more accessible and habitual. When doulas understand that their input is valued and used—whether for staff training, relationship building, or systems improvement—they are more likely to participate actively. Providing space for informal verbal feedback, as well as written notes, has also made the process feel more flexible and less burdensome. In some cases, feedback has even led to hospital-based improvements or the inclusion of SisterWeb voices in grand rounds or clinical training sessions, reinforcing the value of doula perspectives.

To continue increasing meaningful feedback from doulas, SisterWeb should maintain and refine current systems for tracking input, while also creating opportunities for doulas to see the impact of their feedback. For example, highlighting feedback-driven changes during team meetings or newsletters can help close the loop and encourage continued participation. Offering regular prompts, gentle reminders, and debrief spaces after challenging births can also support emotional processing and documentation. Ensuring hospital partners are receptive and responsive to this feedback—through regular CDI check-ins or collaborative action planning—will be key to sustaining a culture of open, actionable dialogue.