March 29, 2024
BANGOR DAILY NEWS (BANGOR, MAINE

Birthing education program offered> Cary Medical Center to share information

CARIBOU — Women delivering babies today spend so little time in hospitals, anywhere from six to 48 hours, there is little time for health care professions to share much-needed information on baby care and maternal health.

Cary Medical Center now offers a birthing education program aimed at filling this void.

Called “New Beginnings,” the program begins when a woman seeks prenatal care. She is introduced to an obstetrical nurse who works with the mother-to-be during her pregnancy. The nurse may be present during labor and birth and will visit the new mother and her baby after they go home from the hospital.

Approximately 250 babies are born each year at the Caribou hospital.

Jackie Devoe, director of nursing at Cary Medical Center, said the program is part of an effort to take a proactive position in responding to health care reforms, including managed care.

“As the concept of managed care, coupled with limited resources and funds, pervades the health care industry, health care providers must rise to the challenge by becoming more creative and innovative at providing quality patient care while continuously working at lowering health costs. This is the true strength of our comprehensive New Beginnings program,” Devoe said.

The new program will provide an increased amount of prenatal education to expectant mothers beginning with her first physician’s appointment.

A redesigned prenatal education program, along with educational materials for new fathers and siblings will enhance the New Beginnings program, according to Barbara Margeson RN, Cary health educator.

Another aspect of the program will be the development of a resource center in the hospital’s obstetrical unit. The center will provide a location for educational sessions as well as audiovisual aids, books and other informational tools.


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