Health: Free Healthcare for new moms

Dr. Jill Maura Rabin  

Issue of August 7, 2009 / 17 Av 5769

Ask any woman and she will tell you-pregnancy is one of the most important times in her life. And, the most important thing to remember is that having a healthy baby begins before conception.

To help women and their babies get off to a good start, the Prenatal Care Assistance Program at North Shore-Long Island Jewish Medical Center offers qualified women a host of free services regardless of immigration or insurance status.

Expectant women with family or financial difficulties or medical problems, or teens can receive pregnancy testing; prenatal care for themselves and their babies; Lamaze childbirth preparation classes; high-risk maternity services, should the need arise; post-partum hospital care; family planning counseling; and follow-up after birth at the PCAP facility at North Shore-LIJ. Even dental services are now available - a major step in arming women against potential threats to their pregnancies from gum-related diseases.

A team that includes a physician or nurse practitioner, registered nurses, dentists, social workers, nutritionists, child educators and other counselors provides care.

Financial need is the basis for participating in PCAP, which is funded by the NYS Department of Health. Many women who have no health insurance may qualify so don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Women currently enrolled in NYS Medicaid are automatically eligible; those covered by Medicaid Managed Care may also be eligible — it’s a good idea to call and see if they can help.

For information call 718 or 516- 470-4400 and ask to speak with a staff member.