Through the WA Country Health Service, the McGowan Government, in partnership with the Health Consumers’ Council WA (HCC), has launched the My Baby WA app – providing pregnancy, birth and baby information to Western Australian parents at the touch of a button.
The app was borne out of collaboration with other Western Australian Health Service Providers to ensure the features, tools and information were applicable to new parents regardless of where they live and how they access healthcare.
The app is available to download free from the Apple and Android app stores and is designed to function without internet connection and ensure information is tailored to individual localities.
The app features evidence-based information to aid families with:
- maternity, newborn and child health-related services in the user’s location;
- tips tailored to the parents using its unique mother and father or partner mode;
- a pregnancy timeline with reminders and an antenatal care schedule;
- pregnancy progress information such as foetal size and development;
- a Baby Bumps photo gallery and Noongar lullabies;
- the ability to track appointments and tests;
- examples and types of questions to ask at antenatal appointments;
- the opportunity to provide feedback on care received through a Women’s Experience of Maternity Services (WEMS) survey.
The data received through the WEMS survey will support all WA maternity services to develop and improve services that meet demands.
As stated by Health Minister Roger Cook:
“The app is a one-stop-shop for new parents, providing up to date and evidence-based information.
“We know that families were struggling to get access to consistent evidence-based information and I’m very proud to see the McGowan Government and the Health Consumers’ Council working together to bridge that gap.
“Importantly, the My Baby WA app removes the need for families to receive hardcopy publications – it keeps all of the relevant information in one easy to use, accessible app and ensures we’re reducing waste at the same time.
“I’d encourage all expectant families to download the app – it delivers a wealth of information, tips and tools to families at the touch of a button.
“I know that navigating the health system can sometimes be overwhelming – that’s why the Government is committed to harnessing technology to ensure all Western Australians can access the information they need when and where they need it.”
