WIC Program Changes Starting October 1, 2023
As the federal COVID-19 public health emergency has ended, the USDA flexibilities that have allowed Colorado WIC to provide all services remotely (by phone) are ending on September 30, 2023. Due to this, some WIC appointments may need to be completed in person but WIC will continue to offer phone and online appointments whenever possible.
If you have questions about this change, please contact your local WIC clinic.
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What’s changing?
- Starting October 1, 2023, WIC will once again need to gather participants’ growth measurements (heights and weights) and hemoglobin levels at enrollment and re-enrollment appointments.
- WIC can accept growth measurements (must be within the last 60 days) and hemoglobin levels taken by a doctor or community health program. If this information is available, the participant may be able to complete their appointment by phone instead of in person.
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What does this mean for families participating on WIC?
Many WIC appointments can still be done over the phone or online. There will be times, at least once a year, when WIC will need to assess you or your child’s growth and hemoglobin levels to help us partner with you to provide personalized nutrition services.
- If you and/or your child have recent growth measurements (height and weight) and a hemoglobin level taken by a doctor or a community health program, then you may be able to complete the enrollment (or re-enrollment) appointment by phone.
- If this information is not available, the enrollment or re-enrollment appointment to determine program eligibility will need to be completed in person.
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Why does WIC need heights, weights, and hemoglobin levels?
- WIC is a health and nutrition program and growth measurements are an important sign of health and nutritional well-being. During your appointment, WIC will gather these measurements and let you know how your child is growing on their growth chart or where you are on your pregnancy weight gain grid.
- WIC can also let you know if your hemoglobin level is low or at a healthy level. If your hemoglobin level is low, WIC can talk to you about iron rich foods that will improve your hemoglobin level.
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What if a participant needs to change WIC clinic locations?
- Use the Find My Clinic to find the WIC clinic closest to you. Call the clinic you’d like to be seen at to schedule your next appointment.