Newsroom > DHHS News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 15, 2008

CONTACT
Marla Augustine, Communications and Legislative Services, (402) 471-4047 or marla.augustine@dhhs.ne.gov

Note: A public service announcement (:30) is available at http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/audio/

Note: A sound bite from Dr. Joann Schaefer on this topic is available at: http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/audio/

Lincoln—Over 8,000 calls later, the Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies helpline is still in action and beginning its 15^th year this summer, according to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

The helpline was established in 1994 as required by federal law. The purpose of the law is to ensure that women have access to referrals for prenatal care as well as maternal and child health care.

Today, in addition to referrals to health care providers, the helpline provides advice and encouragement to pregnant women, parents, grandparents and caregivers.

"Let’s face it: Children don’t come with an instruction manual," said Dr. Joann Schaefer, Chief Medical Officer and Director of the Division of Public Health. "The helpline can assist mothers-to-be, parents or any caregivers with their questions."

Need suggestions on how to deal with a crying baby? How to find a child care facility, a WIC clinic or an immunization clinic? Where to find a pediatrician? When to take your child to the emergency room? How to breastfeed? What to do when your child has a fever?

DHHS contracts with Methodist Health System in Omaha to provide the helpline. Calls are answered 24 hours a day by registered nurses. The number is 1-800-862-1889.

For more information visit the DHHS Web site at www.dhhs.ne.gov.

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