NorthBay Helps Parents Take ‘Baby Steps’ Bos

Boston, July 12, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NorthBay Healthcare is joining forces with a Boston-based health technology company to create “Baby Steps by NorthBay,” for new and expectant families.

Using UbiCare’s SmarteXp solution, NorthBay will deliver health education and support from pregnancy through a child’s third birthday on patients’ smart phones and computers through mobile-optimized texts and emails. Families can sign up to receive this service by visiting NorthBay.org/Cherish . 

Each message is customized to coincide with milestones in a child’s development. That means parents with newborns receive information about caring for newborn while parents with toddlers will receive relevant information on their age and stage.

Recognizing that patients in all demographics are increasingly using smartphones as their primary means of online access, NorthBay leaders expect Baby Steps will better engage patients in their care.

“Patients will have the choice of connecting with NorthBay by email or text, with both options optimized for mobile viewing,” said Sarah Jewel, director of Facilities Development.

NorthBay Medical Center was designated as a Baby Friendly facility in 2014 and Baby Steps will be used to educate patients on exclusive breastfeeding and to provide staff with on-demand access to training that aligns with the World Health Organization’s 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding 

“As the region’s only locally based, locally managed nonprofit healthcare organization, we strive to ensure that local residents remain near home for most of the healthcare services they'll need in their lifetimes,” said Sarah.

“Staying connected to our patients after they deliver here and in their everyday lives extends our quality care outside the hospital and through the entire care episode.”

NorthBay is particularly focused on improving access to care as part of its ABC Prenatal Program, which provides personalized pre- and postnatal resources in both English and Spanish for pregnant women with limited or no health insurance.

“With the ability to easily translate care messages into Spanish and other common languages, the solution will be an invaluable addition to our network of services,” said Sarah.

NorthBay also plans to use SmarteXp to help increase vaccination rates among children, from newborns to age 3.

About UbiCare

UbiCare, a health technology company, provides engagement solutions enabling hospitals to be at the forefront of patient-centered innovation and value-based care. Through targeted education, mobile connections and real-time data, UbiCare’s interactive SmarteXp platform improves your hospital's quality of care and operational efficiencies.  

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Jackie Simon UbiCare 617-524-8861 jackie.simon@ubicare.com