Shirley Campbell Nunez of the Onslow County Health Department used the program to note Jan. 23 as Maternal Health Awareness Day and to review the department's maternal and family services. Nunez said the department offers preventive care including annual physicals, PAP tests and mammogram guidance, and that services are provided regardless of insurance with a sliding-fee scale.

On prenatal services, Nunez urged early testing and first-trimester prenatal care, outlining the department's visit cadence: visits every four weeks up to 28 weeks, every two weeks to 36 weeks, and continued visits through 40 weeks. She said those planning pregnancy can get educational resources and early testing through the health department.

Nunez also described postpartum supports: nurse home visits, early follow-up after cesarean deliveries or high-risk pregnancies, and targeted check-ins within the first week when clinical concerns exist. She said these services aim to address preventable post-birth complications and to provide resources for new parents.

The health department offers translation services, Spanish-speaking staff, and an appointments line; Nunez said staff will help patients of many language backgrounds and that the department accepts walk-ins at its College Street location with appointments available Monday'Friday from 8 a.m.

Nunez cited CDC data about overall adult health and framed prevention and early-care as key tools for improving maternal and family outcomes. She encouraged community members to call the health department to connect to care.