Is DHHS (Department of Health and Human Services, formally known as DHS) going to take my baby?
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) wants to make sure babies and children are raised in a safe environment. In Maine, If your baby has withdrawals at birth, a DHHS worker will be contacted. Because every family is different, DHHS will handle each case differently. In Maine, Most families will have a home visit by a DHHS public health nurse, who will check the safety of your home and might make recommendations, such as taking parenting classes or receiving additional counseling. To learn more, read the What to Expect at the Hospital area of this site.