Staff Report
Even in normal times, the first few months of a newborn’s life can be both joyous and overwhelming. However, these unprecedented circumstances are affecting everyone, and can be particularly taxing for new parents.
Welcome Every Baby Family Connects (WEB-FC) services such as postpartum visits with nurses and lactation consultants are now offered through telehealth visits. Although not the preferred method of connecting with families, this protocol is an acceptable alternative to provide crucial support for families in our community.
In addition to telehealth visits, WEB-FC will be offering two online Mothers Support Groups to support new mothers of infants birth to four months, one focusing on lactation support, and one with a broader focus on care of the mother and newborn in the first four months. Topics include health, nutrition, parenting, self-care, newborn development, etc.
These online groups will be led by the WEB-FC Nurses and include special guests, including pediatricians and other experts to support new families.
New parents and parents-to-be are encouraged to inquire about eligibility for free WEB-FC Nurse telehealth “visit(s)” either at Cottage Health Hospital or Lompoc Valley Medical Center prior to being discharged after delivery or by calling the WEB-FC Line. A mother can register for the Mothers Support Groups by either contacting her WEB-FC Nurse or by calling the WEB-FC Line at 805-729-1593. Space is limited.
WEB-FC’s evidence-based model includes four key areas of assessment and support: maternal-newborn health and lactation, caring for the baby, community safety, and emotional/behavior health. It also provides information, linkages, and referrals to community resources.
WEB-FC has been providing free postpartum home visits in Santa Barbara County since 2001.
