The big picture: A new report from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute and Utah DHHS reveals that substance use disorder is one of the top contributing factors in maternal deaths across Utah—and stigma often prevents women from seeking help.
Why it matters: Fear of judgment or losing custody can keep pregnant and postpartum women from accessing care, even when support is available.
What they’re saying: “We did interview dozens of providers and community organizations that support new families and pregnant women. What we heard a lot is stigma is huge, especially for pregnant and postpartum women because of the fear of losing a child, a fear of admitting that they’re struggling,” says Melanie Beagley, Sr. Health Research Analyst at the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. “And then if you add in substance use that that creates an even kind of greater barrier just internally to go seek that care because of the fear.”
The bright spot: Programs like “Step One” at Ashley Regional Medical Center in Vernal and Castleview Hospital in Price are making a difference.
- The program connects individuals with a care navigator who helps them access treatment and support for up to six months.
- “There’s a great program at both Ashley Regional Medical Center in Vernal and Castleview Hospital and Price. It’s called the Step One program. Any adult eighteen years and older who maybe has a substance use problem and wants to get help with it, there’s a care navigator there, and they basically stay with that person and help them find all the resources they need for up to six months. And it’s extremely successful,” says Matt McCullough, Rural Hospital Improvement Director at Utah Hospital Association.
The bottom line: Reducing maternal deaths means addressing substance use with compassion, access, and long-term support.
Read the full report: https://ruralhealth.utah.gov/maternal-health/