New Program Improves Health Of Indigenous Babies

Darling Downs Health has launched an innovative new program aimed at improving the health outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander babies.

The Bridging Antenatal Care, Indigenous Babies and Smoking Cessation (BAIBS) program encourages pregnant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, or those women pregnant with an Indigenous baby, to attend antenatal appointments and quit smoking.

The BAIBS program is being headed up by Indigenous Health Programs Manager, Hope McMillan. “This project has seen a collaboration between Darling Downs Health, Aboriginal Medical Services and GPs in our health service area to improve the health and wellbeing of expecting mums and their babies,” Mrs McMillan said. “It aims to get babies off to the best start in life.”

Rewards and incentives are available to eligible women who successfully take part in the program.
There are also incentives for people who live in the woman’s household to complete the program.
“I encourage eligible women to ask their GP or other health care provider about BAIBS so they can
improve the health of themselves and their families,” Mrs McMillan said.

To find out more contact 0436 914 968 or email BAIBS@health.qld.gov.au

Submitted by:
Anthea Holborn
Senior Media Officer
Media, Communication and Engagemen
e: anthea.holborn@health.qld.gov.au  | w: Darling Downs Health