January 31, 2025 - West Chester, PA
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 HealthDr. Val Arkoosh - Secretary, PA Dept. of Human Services CJ - Client, West ChesterSommer - Client, CoatesvilleJamie Johnson - Exec. Dir. of Chester County Drug & Alcohol