Grant To Boost Outreach Program

FARMINGTON,Conn. — ConnectiCare Inc. has awarded its 2002 Community Benefit Grant to the Visiting Nurse Assoc. and Hospice of Western New England (VNAH) to enhance its Early Maternity Discharge Program, which offers service to area teenage mothers and their newborns.
The annual grant reflects Connecti-Care’s commitment to improving the health status of the underserved and other needy residents of Massachusetts.

The program provides postpartum care to health mothers and newborns following early discharge (less than 48 hours after normal delivery and 96 hours after cesarean delivery) from Baystate Medical Center.

Visiting nurses perform newborn assessments, including evaluation of hydration, reflexes, jaundice, etc. The nurses also assess the mother’s physical and mental health and give instruction on breastfeeding, nutrition, safety, and signs of illness or dysfunction that may warrant consultation with a physician.