A healthy pregnancy has always been a vital step to a healthy birth and baby, yet the pandemic has placed increased stress on keeping you and your child safe. New mothers must take more precautions than ever before due to the severity and impacts of COVID-19.
Like most of the world, local prenatal care has gone digital to decrease face-to-face contact and limit the overall spread of the virus. Routine prenatal and postpartum visits are being supplemented with virtual care through telemedicine services to help protect both the baby and the mother.
Please know that Capital Area Healthy Start Coalition is here to help our community of expecting and new mothers and family members navigate this new norm. As we continue to serve those in Leon and Wakulla counties, our care coordinators are equipped to assist you virtually with whatever technology YOU, the client, prefer.
Here are some tips to help you navigate telemedicine:
- Let your care coordinator know which platform you prefer (Skype, Facetime, Google Meet, Zoom, etc.) and what technology you have available (Cell phone, laptop, desktop, tablet, etc.)
- Be open and honest about how you are feeling or what is going on in your pregnancy or life
- Do not skip appointments – just because they are virtual does not mean they aren’t vital
- Let us know if you need any assistance with virtual platforms that your healthcare providers require you to use
It is important to note that some visits will require physical attendance to ensure the baby is properly developing. These visits are vital, and we recommend taking the proper safety measures such as wearing PPE, social distancing, and limiting contact as much as possible. Before attending any visit, call your doctor’s office and make sure you follow their guidelines and take all the precautions before coming in.
Remember, every baby needs a healthy start! Whether physical or digital, please continue to schedule and attend your appointments. The proper care cannot be sacrificed even with the uncertainty of the world.
If you need assistance with prenatal or postpartum care, please contact the Capital Area Healthy Start team. Our care coordinators provide women, babies, and families the tools and resources they need to thrive, even during a pandemic.
