Source: US State of Pennsylvania
January 31, 2025 – West Chester, PA
Shapiro Administration Hosts Maternal Healthcare Roundtable with Pennsylvanians Affected by Substance Use Disorder to Inform Strategic Plan to Improve Maternal Health Outcomes
Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, along with leadership from the departments of Human Services (DHS) and Health (DOH), joined substance use disorder (SUD) treatment providers, those with lived experience, local government and judicial officials, and others for a roundtable discussion to seek feedback on the development of Commonwealth’s Maternal Health Strategic Plan specific to the SUD-related care for pregnant and postpartum women.
At the roundtable, Shapiro Administration leaders learned firsthand what barriers Pennsylvanians experience when trying to access SUD maternal health care and heard about the role stigma plays in accessing care.
“The Shapiro Administration understands the impact of substance use disorders on pregnant and postpartum women and their children,” said Secretary Davis-Jones. “DDAP and our sister agencies are committed to implementing a comprehensive plan to ensure that pregnant women don’t just survive before, during, and after pregnancy-but truly thrive.”
Interviews Include:
Dr. Latika Davis-Jones – Secretary, PA Dept. of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP)
Dr. Debra Bogen – Secretary, PA Dept. of Health
Dr. Val Arkoosh – Secretary, PA Dept. of Human Services
CJ – Client, West Chester
Sommer – Client, Coatesville
Jamie Johnson – Exec. Dir. of Chester County Drug & Alcohol