First Born Program

Amid all the joy and excitement when any family learns that their first child is on the way comes the realization that there are dozens of questions to be answered. The First Born Program, based at Los Alamos Medical Center, is a unique, home-based visiting service designed to meet this need, and to ensure that first-time mothers receive consistent prenatal care.

This service is free to residents of Los Alamos County and is based on the belief that a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby are integral to the long-term success of the family and the community. The program offers weekly home visits, regardless of income, starting with prenatal care and continuing to age 3 years, or until the family goals are achieved. The program's curriculum includes comprehensive tools, activities, and educational materials that are adapted to each family's needs.

Under the direction of Patricia Worth RN, the program enjoys strong support from the medical community because of its evidence-based outcomes, rigorous staffing requirements, and clinical training protocols. The program has continued to grow and now includes a postpartum home visit by a registered nurse, in addition to weekly or semi-weekly visits by trained home visitors. The First Born Program has many proven results and benefits including receiving consistent prenatal care, higher immunization rates, and well-baby check ups.

First Born Programs are found throughout the state in Santa Fe, Espanola, Albuquerque, Silver City, and Socorro. The Los Alamos program is generously supported by Los Alamos Medical Center, the LANL Foundation, the LAMC Hospital Auxiliary, the New Mexico Early Childhood Development Program, and the Northern New Mexico Health Grants Group.

If you are interested in learning more about the First Born Program or the First Born Play Groups, please call LAMC First Born Program at 505-661-9224 or email firstbornlanm@gmail.com.