CLINIC SERVICES
Infant Welfare's services include medical, dental and mental health care for women and children. Visit IWS on any day and it's a bustle of activity from open until close. But when you look at the numbers of families we serve, you can see how many lives we really touch. As an enrollment site for the State of Illinois' KidCare program, the Infant Welfare Society assists families in obtaining health insurance for their children. Last year, we enrolled more than 600 families in KidCare.
PEDIATRIC SERVICES . . . 17,096 pediatric visits
The IWS Pediatric Clinic promotes total wellness among our pediatric patient population through the provision of a comprehensive system of primary care that stresses prevention and incorporates culturally competent health education. Services include school physicals, immunizations, and vision & hearing tests Last year, 94% of our patients 19-35 months of age had undergone a series of vaccinations in the recommended 4:3:1:3:3 ratio.
Our providers also monitor conditions to which our population is particularly vulnerable. The parents of all children 6 and under receive preventive education on lead poisoning, including information on environmental factors and the dangers of peeling paint and dust. We test children’s blood lead levels according to Chicago Department of Health protocol. Those whose lead levels are found to be elevated receive medical treatment, advanced education on lead, and regular follow-up testing.
Children diagnosed with asthma learn how to identify and avoid asthma triggers and how to use asthma medications and peak flow meters properly. Staff and patients collaborate on individualized asthma action plans in accordance with National Institutes of Health guidelines. Emergencies are treated on site with nebulizers, helping families avoid the time and expense associated with emergency room care. Last year, we provided education to and managed the asthma of approximately 220 patients.
As pediatric patients grow older, they make the transition into our Teen Clinic, which maintains a separate session on Wednesday evenings. In addition to regular physical exams, we offer group and individualized instruction on health and safety issues, anonymous HIV testing, and sessions with a bilingual mental health counselor.
