Name of the Procedure:

Post-partum Screenings, Evaluations, and Education (HCPCS Code G9357)

Summary

Post-partum screenings, evaluations, and education refer to a series of health checks and educational sessions provided to new mothers after childbirth. These screenings are designed to assess the mother's physical and mental well-being and offer guidance on newborn care, breastfeeding, and postpartum recovery.

Purpose

This procedure aims to address:

• Early detection of postpartum depression or anxiety.
• Identification of any complications from childbirth, such as infections or bleeding.
• Education on newborn care, breastfeeding techniques, and maternal self-care.
• Promotion of overall health and well-being in the postpartum period.

Indications

• Women who have recently given birth.
• Symptoms like persistent sadness, anxiety, postpartum bleeding, or signs of infection.
• Follow-up for mothers with pre-existing health conditions that could affect their post-partum recovery.

Preparation

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments required.
• A thorough medical history and any recent childbirth complications should be reviewed.

Procedure Description

1. Screening: Healthcare professionals will conduct physical and mental health assessments, checking for signs of complications or postpartum mood disorders.
2. Evaluations: This includes physical examinations, vital sign checks, and possibly lab tests if any abnormalities are detected.
3. Education: Information on post-partum recovery, newborn care, breastfeeding, and when to seek medical advice is provided.

Tools and equipment used may include:

• Blood pressure monitors
• Scales
• Standard medical examination tools

No anesthesia or sedation is involved.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the patient's needs.

Setting

Post-partum screenings are performed in outpatient clinics, primary care settings, or hospital postnatal wards.

Personnel

• Obstetricians or gynecologists
• Primary care physicians
• Nurses or nurse practitioners
• Lactation consultants

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks, primarily due to routine physical and mental evaluations.
• Possible emotional discomfort when discussing mental health issues, which will be managed with sensitivity and confidentiality.

Benefits

• Early detection and management of postpartum complications and mood disorders.
• Enhanced maternal knowledge and confidence in newborn care.
• Improved physical and mental health outcomes for new mothers.

Recovery

• No physical recovery time needed; patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled based on findings or to monitor progress.

Alternatives

• Self-care education during prenatal visits.
• Immediate postpartum care within the hospital stay, although prolonged follow-up is often still recommended.

Pros and cons compared to alternatives:

• More comprehensive and focused on mothers' postnatal needs.
• Provides personalized and direct support compared to general advice given during hospital stays.

Patient Experience

• Patients can expect open and supportive communication with healthcare providers.
• Some discussions might provoke emotional reactions, and appropriate support will be provided.
• Generally, there is no physical pain involved, and resources for pain management (e.g., for lingering childbirth-related pain) will be discussed when relevant.