New Orleans Program Offers Free Postpartum House Calls to Support New Mothers
Family Connects New Orleans (FCNO) is a program providing free in-home visits to new mothers in Orleans Parish, regardless of their insurance status or income. The initiative, which began in August 2023, aims to support families during the critical postpartum period by offering up to three visits from a nurse to parents of newborns up to 12 weeks old. The program is part of a national effort to bridge the gap between birth and the first postnatal appointment, addressing both medical and social needs. Nurses conduct clinical evaluations, offer mental health screenings, and connect families with community resources. The program has shown positive outcomes, including reduced Medicaid spending and increased trust in the healthcare system.