HOSPITAL PROGRAM

The DSAGC provides essential information on Down syndrome contained in a "Hospital Packet" to area hospitals, special care nurseries, perinatal care coordinators, geneticists and social workers. Contacts at 40 area hospital departments have been established over the last 20 years that this program has been available for professionals. "Hospital Packets" are delivered annually to these medical professionals so that nursing staff can assist new parents. Hospital staffs are instructed to provide this Hospital Packet to any a new family who delivers a baby with Down syndrome. The DSAGC designed this packet to offer the first written information a new parent will receive after the birth of a baby with Down syndrome. This packet contains a booklet on welcoming your new baby into your family, a booklet on breastfeeding babies with Down syndrome and handouts which define Down syndrome. Hospital contacts are contacted every six months to assure that they have adequate supplies available. In addition, DSAGC staff and volunteers are available to make presentations to professional groups which can assist them in their understanding of Down syndrome and offer suggestions on delivering the diagnosis in a sensitive manner.

Hospital Information Packet

This packet is distributed to 40 area hospitals, special care nurseries, perinatal care programs, and geneticists. It provides an introduction to Down syndrome for new parents. Sensitive, yet informative, this packet includes information on medical issues, breastfeeding and an invitation to connect with other new families who can provide support.