Pregnant women across B.C. now have access to a free telephone program that connects them with a public health nurse in their community.
Healthy From The Start, formerly called the Prenatal Registry, launched in six pilot communities, including Cranbrook and Kimberley, last year.
“During our first year, over 500 women from the pilot communities used our service to connect with a public health nurse, learn about healthy pregnancies, and find out about services in their communities,” said Nadine Johnson, Practice Lead with Interior Health.
“We are thrilled to now offer this service to women in all Interior Health communities.”
Pregnant women are invited to call Healthy From The Start as early in the pregnancy as possible. A public health nurse will take the expectant mother through a health screening questionnaire, answer questions, and connect her to resources in the area. She can also request a free copy of the Baby’s Best Chance book.
Healthy From The Start will give families information and support about accessing prenatal care, warning signs in pregnancy, mental health, relationships, breastfeeding and parenting.
“We encourage all pregnant women to take advantage of this service and to call early in their pregnancies,” said Johnson. “Receiving early prenatal care and connecting with supports and services has a tremendous impact on both the mother’s health and the health of the baby.”
Healthy From The Start can be reached through the toll-free line at 1-855-868-7710 or online by submitting the program contact form at www.interiorhealth.ca/HealthyFromTheStart.
The phone service is available Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.