Child Service Coordination (CSC)
This program is provided by the public health nurses in the parent's home county and is available to children less than 3 years of age who are at risk for developmental delay or disability, chronic illness or social-emotional disorder. Public health nurses with specialized training in pediatrics provide care coordination and support to families through home visits and assist in accessing preventive, specialized and support services. The NICU staff will initiate a CSC referral to the local public health department on all babies who are eligible prior to their discharge from the NICU.
Domestic Violence Services
There are a variety of local agencies available to help victims of domestic violence. Many agencies offer shelter, counseling, information and services for the abusive partner. Parents should contact their local law enforcement agency or, in the case of an emergency, 9-1-1 for local resources.
Hospital Early Intervention Program (HEI)
HEI is a comprehensive program for premature and high-risk infants who are expected to remain in the NICU for at least 30 days, and who are also expected to qualify for infant-toddler services. Funded by a Duke Endowment grant, the purpose of the program is to assist families of high-risk infants in optimizing their baby's growth and development by providing support and access to early intervention services. Babies are identified and referred to the program by hospital medical staff based on medical and environmental risk factors.
Medicaid
Medicaid is federal and state funded health insurance that helps many people who can't afford medical care pay for some or all of their medical bills. Having private medical insurance may not exclude a baby from eligibilty. Parents should contact the department of social services in their home county for eligibility information.
Parents Together
Parents Together provides one-on-one peer support to any NICU parent. They are a part of a larger organization, Family Support Network of North Carolina. Additionally, Parents Together sponsors a lending library and "Chat and Snack," which meets monthly in the NICU conference room. For more information, contact 336-924-5301.
Public Health Nurse Referral
Many of our infants are referred to a public health nurse. This is a community resource found in the county where the infant lives. The public health nurse will contact you after your baby is discharged to assess your babys growth, feeding patterns, general health and to remind you of needed immunizations. The public health nurse can answer many of the questions you may have after leaving the hospital and can help you with other needs or concerns.
Ronald McDonald House
For parents who live out of town, the Ronald McDonald House offers lodging for a small donation. Your baby's nurse or another NICU staff member will be happy to make a reservation for you at the Ronald McDonald House. Sometimes there is a waiting list for rooms. If this is the case, the Ronald McDonald House will call you directly when a room becomes available.
Ronald McDonald Room
The Ronald McDonald Room is available for those wishing for a little time to relax. Equipped with a kitchen, washer and dryer, tv, and internet access, this room is a place to gather together or just time to be alone. It is located on the 7th floor of the north tower.
Substance Abuse Services
There are a wide variety of local and statewide agencies available to provide assistance to parents seeking treatment and maintaining recovery from alcohol or other drugs. Parents should contact their local mental health clinic for programs in their county. The WISH (Women and Infant's Services for Health) program offers special help for substance abusing women and girls, and serves Forsyth and surrounding counties. The contact phone number is 336-713-9729.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a federal program that can provide monthly cash and Medicaid benefits to children who meet medical and financial criteria. Medical eligibility is determined by set disability categories including a birthweight less than 1200 grams (approximately 2 pounds, 10 ounces). Family income guidelines are also determined by the Social Security Administration. Contact the NICU Social Worker to apply for SSI.
Transportation
The Department of Social Services (DSS) may be able to assist with transportation to the NICU. Parents should contact their county's DSS to determine eligibility and local transportation resources.
Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
WIC is a federal program for breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding women and babies. The program provides food vouchers for breastfeeding women, formula for non-breastfeeding babies and nutrition education. Parents may contact their local public health department to determine if they are eligible for this program.
Looking for a doctor for your baby?
It is very important for you to decide who your baby's doctor will be well before your baby is ready for discharge.
