Healthy Start will provide services for more than 8000 women and infants in Hardee, Highlands and Polk Counties this year.
What is a Healthy Start Screening?
It is a short form you complete with your prenatal care provider in a private setting. It will ask you questions about you and your health… Anything that could affect the health of your baby. YOUR ANSWERS ARE STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL!
How do I qualify?
Your doctor, midwife or nurse will review your answers to the screening form to find out if you need extra help during your pregnancy. The program is voluntary and available to all Florida residents. You will not lose any current services if you choose to participate. Eligibility is based on your screening score, not on financial factors.
If you were not offered a screen by your doctor, please ask for one on your next visit.
What services are provided?
A Healthy Start Care Coordinator can arrange a variety of services if needed, including :
- Help making doctor appointments
- Childbirth classes
- Nutrition education
- Breastfeeding support
- Help in quitting smoking
- Parenting support and education
- Counseling
- Family Planning
- Coordination of other community services
- Home visits by health professionals
Healthy Start care coordination services are provided by your local county health department. For health department contact information, please click here.