Date of Award

Spring 4-30-2025

Embargo Period

5-30-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Health Administration

College

College of Health Professions

First Advisor

Kit Simpson

Second Advisor

Caitlin Koob

Third Advisor

Mary Dooley

Abstract

Pregnant and post-partum women are not excluded from the growing number of individuals impacted by the opioid epidemic. The opioid epidemic is well understood as a widespread public health crisis. The impact has far-reaching effects beyond the individual user, data shows that there are serious implications for families, the healthcare system, taxpayers, and communities.

Pregnancy is a particularly vulnerable period in a woman’s healthcare journey, and for women struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD), it is an extremely high-risk time. Opioid misuse during pregnancy carries serious risks for both the mother and the infant. It is extremely important to identify and remove barriers for pregnant women to get the treatment they need to abstain from opioid misuse.

Emergency Department Data indicates that there are missed opportunities for pregnant women with OUD presenting to emergency departments. Women who leave against medical advice do not receive the recommended standard of care. The data shows the sociodemographic characteristics of this population and examines the possibilities of coordinating care.

Rights

Copyright is held by the author. All rights reserved.

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Available for download on Friday, May 30, 2025

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