National Recovery Month
In recognition of September as National Recovery Month, Volunteers of America Ohio & Indiana hosted a panel discussion in downtown Indianapolis on Tuesday, September 13th. “Creating Healthy Families: Maternal Substance Use Disorder and Its Impact on Families” brought together state and local leaders for an important conversation around maternal substance use disorder, its stigma, and health disparities.
“A mother who is not well has a huge impact on everyone in that family. Seeing how these success stories come together is so motivating to always rise to the challenge of helping people when they’re ready for help.”
– Brooke Shaefer, NP
Director of Perinatal Substance Use Disorder Programs
Community Health Network
Anne Marie Tiernon, WTHR/NBC news anchor, moderated the 90-minute discussion. Throughout the morning, advancing health equity for all Hoosier families emerged as a common theme. The esteemed panel offered their diverse perspectives on a myriad of topics, from creative ways to combat the labor crisis to emerging trends in the care and treatment for women with substance use disorder. One thing was clear from the morning, there is a shared vision to inspire change.
“We know effective treatment and coordinated care for women and mothers with substance use disorder leads to better birth outcomes, decreased maternal and fetal deaths, lower rates of custody loss and stronger families.”
- John R. von Arx III, President & CEO
Volunteers of America Ohio & Indiana
Everyone can be part of the solution! With more resources and community support, healthy families and communities can be ensured for all.
“I truly believe improving the foundational public health services at every county’s level to bring the not-for-profits, schools, hospital CEOs, and the healthcare systems together will better address the patient’s needs.”
- Dr. Kristina Box, State Health Commissioner
Indiana Department of Health
Please click below to watch the event replay and view photos: