*Y.C.* Mobile Mothers

Many organizations exist in helping new mothers care for newborns. However, prenatal care and education is often forgotten. This is more so in areas where illegal Hispanic immigrant populations are more dense. Reasons vary from immigrants having governmental fear to lack of accessibility in why these populations have lacked in prenatal care. Having vans that are able to reach these populations will help thousands of mothers and children live a strong, healthy life. These mobile vans would specialize in prenatal care. Things that would be preformed in the van include but are not limited to:
History and physical exam for the mother
Labs: Blood type/antibody screen, CBC, Rubella, RPR, Hep B panel, Thyroid function tests, HIV testing.
Urinalysis – important to treat even asymptomatic bacteruria
Cervical Cytology and Chlamydia/Gonorrhea cultures.
Ultrasound – not always performed especially if LMP (last menstrual period) is not in doubt, but does provide better estimation of gestational age.
Genetics Testing/Counseling – Cystic Fibrosis, serum phenylalanine, red cell indices, fragile X, etc.
And most importantly, educational pamphlets/vitamin pill packets.
Some General Education Points:
Multivitamin use is strongly recommended, especially with folate and iron supplements. Avoidance of certain foods with antigens is recommended such as caffeine, excess vitamin A, and even some fish
Substance use is strongly prohibited as it can cause fetal damage. If a patient has addiction problems, then they should be recommended to cessation programs.
Infections- avoid exposure to sick contacts, pets, and get appropriate immunizations.
Work and exercise are ok in uncomplicated pregnancies as long as patient is not exposed to any potential hazards. Patient should not overexert themselves.
Although theoretically there may be an increased risk of preterm labor with sexual relations, studies/evidence has not showed this. As long as there is no vaginal bleeding or rupture of membranes, sexual intercourse is not prohibited.
Any medication use should be discussed with physician before use.
Airline travel is safe for women with uncomplicated pregnancies.
Though some of these facts may seem logical, Hispanic immigrant populations may be unaware.
These are all examples of things that would be covered with the expecting mother by the trained personnel in the mobile van. The trained personnel could be a nurse or PA as opposed to an actual physician because no actual procedures would be done at the mobile site. This would decrease the cost of the personnel.
This model can be changed to meet the needs of expecting mothers globally.
These mobile units will help under-served populations with health resources by bringing care directly to populations. This idea is focused on providing information and prenatal care to pregnant women and not as a transport system. However, other transport innovations can be integrated into this idea. At minimum, even giving general information about proper transport to receive professional care could be provided during the visits would be helpful. This makes this idea unique because it can integrate other ideas into it as well. By focusing on prenatal care, one can prevent later complications after pregnancy for both the mother and child. The idea presented is focused on providing prenatal care and education to mothers who otherwise would not receive anything.