In a recent webinar sponsored by the American Medical Association (AMA) and Manatt Health, national physician and policy experts urged for increased access to quality care for justice-involved pregnant individuals with a Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Citing an acute need, they discussed how these changes could be implemented to connect the aforementioned group to continued coverage and care upon release.
Dr. Ruth Potee, Dr. Cara Poland, and Dr. Josiah Rich emphasized that a person’s involvement with the carceral system should not diminish their access to medication for addiction. They believe improving access to such services is a critical medical and policy issue in the current landscape.
The discussed blueprint aims to increase awareness and support for justice-involved pregnant individuals with SUD. Furthermore, it stresses that redirecting focus on access to care after release can have potential positive health outcomes for both the individual and their child.
Topics such as policy changes for the accessibility and availability of integrated care and medication for addiction treatment aren’t confined to the patient’s detention period but extended to their transition into the community upon release. It is a call for comprehensive care, extending beyond the confines of incarceration.
This shift in perception and policy holds the promise of not merely revolutionizing care during detention, but inspiring positive, long-term health outcomes, and a potential decrease in recidivism rates. As numerous challenges are faced by justice-involved pregnant people with SUD, a multi-pronged approach emphasizing the importance of accessibility, time-appropriate care, and overall support will play a crucial role in their journey towards recovery.
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