EMPOWER: A Community-Based Approach to Improve Care for Women and Newborns Affected by Perinatal Substance Use Disorder

Abstract

New England has the second highest rate of prenatal opioid exposure in the country. This population of women and children is particularly vulnerable and requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach in order to overcome barriers to care and support good outcomes. This webinar will describe how one rural community collaborated to create a screening, referral and support program called EMPOWER (Engaging Mothers for Positive Outcomes with Early Referrals). Learn how this innovative approach helps support women and improve outcomes by identifying and addressing barriers to care for patients, health care providers and their community. Learning Objectives Participants will: Recognize how prenatal opioid exposure affects the health and wellness of women and their newborns. Identify effective strategies to address barriers to care for women and newborns affected by Perinatal Substance Use Disorder and Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome. Understand the benefits of utilizing a comprehensive, community-based approach to improve outcomes.