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Early Start: an obstetric clinic-based, perinatal substance abuse intervention program.
M A Armstrong1, L Lieberman, D M Carpenter
1Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, Division of Research, Oakland, California, USA.
Quality Management in Health Care
|November 6, 2003
Summary
The Early Start Program aids pregnant women by identifying and treating substance abuse, improving maternal and child health outcomes within managed care settings. This program offers integrated support and counseling services.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Social Work
Background:
- Maternal substance abuse poses significant risks to mothers, fetuses, and children.
- Early identification and intervention are crucial for mitigating adverse effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the development and implementation of the Early Start Program.
- To highlight the program's integration within a managed care organization and its potential for broader application.
Main Methods:
- The Early Start Program provides screening, early identification, intervention, counseling, and case management.
- A licensed clinical social worker is integrated into the prenatal clinic team.
Main Results:
- The program facilitates early identification and intervention for substance abuse in pregnant women.
- The program's structure allows for collaboration between clinical social workers and the prenatal team.
Conclusions:
- The Early Start Program offers a model for addressing maternal substance abuse in managed care.
- The program's design and partnership with research units support its adaptability to other settings.