On June 23, 2020, the Indiana State Department of Health launched the OB Navigator Program in La Porte County. The OB Navigator program is a collaboration between the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) and the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS). This initiative is building a network of services and support for moms and babies to create healthier outcomes for both. It was established by House Enrolled Act 1007, which was signed into law by Gov. Eric Holcomb in 2019.
The goal of this program is to identify women early in their pregnancies and connect them with an OB navigator – a home visitor who provides personalized guidance and support to a woman during her pregnancy and at least the first six to 12 months after her baby’s birth. To begin that effort, the program is working to connect pregnant women who are covered by Medicaid in our highest-risk areas to services in their communities. This initiative is an important step in our efforts to lower Indiana’s infant mortality and maternal mortality rates.
How can you participate? First, you can reach out to your health care provider for information on the program. Next, expectant women and new mothers from anywhere in the state can call the MOMS Helpline at 1-844-MCH-MOMS (1-844-624-6667) to find resources available in their communities. This helpline has English and Spanish speaking specialists on staff with access to help callers of all backgrounds. This helpline can also help with navigation and enrollment in Health Insurance, Nutrition Assistance Programs, Transportation Assistance, and finding a Healthcare Provider. Lastly, pregnant women can sign up for the Liv app, the mobile app for anyone who is thinking about becoming pregnant, currently expecting, or who recently became a parent. Liv is also available online at askliv.com. The free app can be found in the App Store or Google Play Store.
Join us on June 30th for 6 Tips @ 6 on this topic. To find out more information click on the Local Resources button on the home page on the La Porte County Public Library website for more information on the OB Navigator Program. Information can be found under the Health and Medical Tab or the Youth Advocacy Tab.
For more information on the program:
Contact: OBNav@isdh.in.gov
Website: https://www.in.gov/isdh/28233.htm
