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Public commenter urges OAC to address long-term impacts of prenatal opioid exposure and MAT
Summary
An attorney and advocate urged the council to consider studies on medication‑assisted treatment (MAT) in pregnancy and to fund services for children with prenatal opioid exposure, citing higher rates of neonatal abstinence syndrome and later neurodevelopmental concerns.
During the public‑comment period Jan. 23, Amy Brown, an attorney in Knoxville, urged the Opioid Abatement Council to consider the long‑term needs of children prenatally exposed to opioids and the informed‑consent process for medication‑assisted treatment (MAT) in pregnancy.
Brown referenced studies she said link MAT exposure in pregnancy to higher rates of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) and to later developmental and special‑education needs. "Most of the babies, with NAS are withdrawing from the MAT," she said, and she called for improved informed consent for mothers and funding for ongoing services for affected children. She clarified she was not arguing to stop treatment for pregnant women, but to ensure parents are informed and that systems are funded to care for children who may experience long‑term effects.
Chair Dr. Steven Lloyd thanked Brown and offered to connect her with OAC staff; Brown said she could provide studies and contact recommendations. The council did not take action on the public comment during the meeting but received the material for consideration.
