In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the establishment of a collaborative contract with UPMC Chautauqua aimed at enhancing maternal and infant health services in the county. The initiative seeks to strengthen existing connections between the county health department, mental health services, and UPMC, emphasizing a holistic approach to care for mothers and newborns.

Key to the discussion was the importance of direct engagement with patients. Officials highlighted that personal connections during critical moments significantly increase the likelihood of individuals following through with necessary services—up to 90% when support is provided in real-time, compared to just 20% when information is handed out passively.

The meeting also addressed the implementation of evidence-based training programs for healthcare providers, focusing on substance use issues among pregnant women. Officials are exploring various curricula to ensure that staff are well-equipped to handle these sensitive cases, particularly as many women arrive at hospitals still using substances.

Concerns were raised about the potential gaps in services for other facilities, particularly Brooks Hospital, which currently lacks a maternity unit. Officials acknowledged the differences in training and service delivery between UPMC Chautauqua and Brooks, noting that while Brooks does not have a dedicated maternity unit, there are plans to share successful strategies once the UPMC model is established.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the integration of services for infants, including support for those diagnosed with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS), which has recently become a billable service for pediatricians. This integration aims to ensure that both mothers and their children receive comprehensive care during the critical early years of development.

Overall, the discussions underscored a commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes through collaboration, targeted training, and a focus on building trust within the community.