From the left, Danielle Mann, Anna Nelson and Janna Walter, the team behind the County's Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome response effort
Liberty, NY – Sullivan County Public Health Services is excited to share that they have worked in conjunction with Dutchess County to mirror the program Dutchess implemented to reduce the number of infants born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS), a form of post-natal opioid withdrawal.
“Babies are some of our most vulnerable residents, which is why in 2020 the Sullivan County Drug Task Force, in collaboration with Child Protective Services (CPS) and the County’s Health & Human Services Leadership team, secured an experienced Maternal Child Health Nurse to offer services to mothers who are using opioids,” explains Deputy Public Health Director Wendy Brown. “The information obtained from Dutchess County highlighted the reality of substance use in pregnant women and the effect of NAS not only on babies, but on the health of our communities, and the need for more to be done to address this segment of the substance use crisis.”
“Since May 2020, our nurse has made more than 249 visits,” Brown added. “Referral to treatment and information on services available in the County are given if requested or if the need is identified.”
“The ultimate goal of this program is to reduce the number of babies born with NAS in Sullivan County. Public Health Services will monitor success by evaluating the number of clients engaged and number of referrals this program generates. As increased need is demonstrated, we hope to expand the program and continue to see improving health outcomes,” noted Public Health Director Nancy McGraw.
For more information, contact Public Health Services at 845-292-5910.