(WPDE) — January is Birth Defects Awareness Month. The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH), the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN) and the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) are encouraging support and services during this time. The DPH assists families through newborn testing for genetic disorders, referrals of infants with birth defects to treatment and care, promotion of preconception care and early access to prenatal care. The DDSN works to fund services for locals with lifelong disabilities, and they offer early intervention services for children ages three to six. The SCDHHS operates the Healthy Connections Medicaid program, and SCDHHS is able to cover about 60% of births in South Carolina. Minors who have disabilities may qualify for Medicaid coverage under the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act (TEFRA). The DDSN and SCDHHS have worked together to help more than 11,000 infants and children statewide. “Through our state agencies and partner organizations, there are numerous resources available to families, so we encourage parents to take advantage and give their children the best opportunity to succeed,” said Joyce Kimrey, Early Intervention Director for DDSN. Gov. Henry McMaster also proclaimed in light of this month which recognizes the partnership between the DPH, DDSN and SCDHHS in their efforts to provide families with services and resources for their children. For more information on preventative measures, visit DPH’s website. For more information on early intervention services visit DDSN’s website, and for more information on coverage visit SCDHH’s website. Categories: Local News, State Tags: Birth Defects Awareness Month.