Q: What is First Breath?

A: First Breath is a smoking cessation program for pregnant smokers. Health care providers from public, private, non-profit and tribal health clinics statewide provide their clients/patients with non-judgmental smoking cessation counseling at every prenatal and postpartum appointment.

 

Q: What is the First Breath approach?

A: The program is incorporated into existing prenatal care programs in order to serve women more efficiently. The Wisconsin Women’s Health Foundation (WWHF) gives health care providers the training, technical assistance, and educational materials they need to work with clients. First Breath sites submit necessary data forms to the WWHF after particular visits with enrolled First Breath clients.

 

Q: What is expected of First Breath sites?

A: First Breath sites are required to:

• Attend a training session before implementing the program
• Submit data collection forms on each First Breath client at three points: enrollment, during a prenatal follow-up visit and after delivery
• Counsel a minimum of five First Breath clients per year

 

Q: Do pregnant smokers enrolled in First Breath receive incentives?

A: Yes, each First Breath mother receives an enrollment gift, a delivery gift and a free diaper coupon for participating in the program.

 

Q:  What is the first step in becoming a First Breath site?

A:  Contact the Wisconsin Women’s Health Foundation at 608-251-1675.