FINDING COMMON GROUND, A CALL FOR COLLABORATION: PROMOTING STATE INTERAGENCY EFFORTS TO REDUCE THE IMPACT OF PERINATAL ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG USE ON FAMILIES

• NCJ Number: 144215
• Author(s): V H Jones; E Hutchins
• Date Published: Unknown
• Length: 74 pages
• Grant Number(s): MCU-117007
• Sponsoring Agency: US Dept of Health and Human Services
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services; National Ctr for Education in Maternal and Child Health (NCEMCH)
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The use of alcohol and other drugs by women during pregnancy requires interagency cooperation, because maternal drug use increases the risk of developmental disability for infants and children and affects not only the mother and child, but also other family members and the community.

Abstract

A successful response to alcohol and other drug use entails coordination among multiple service providers who interact with at-risk individuals. State agencies need to cooperate with each other in developing public policies and programs that address prevention and treatment. Agencies responsible for services include maternal and child health, alcohol and other drug prevention and treatment, child welfare, education, mental health, housing, and corrections. Each agency plays an integral role in addressing the problem of drug abuse and dependency as it influences families. In addition, consumer advocacy groups, businesses, professionals, elected officials, foundations, local leaders, and consumers should work with agencies to define the problem and develop an appropriate response. Activities of State service systems most prominently involved in reducing the impact of alcohol and other drug use on families are described, and guidelines for establishing collaborative efforts are offered. Appendixes list State Title V directors, State alcohol and drug agency directors, and State child welfare commissioners and/or directors.