Nutrition services as an integral part of chemical dependency treatment for pregnant and parenting women

Abstract

The King County Perinatal Treatment Program, the treatment arm of a comprehensive program known as the MOM's Project, is a five-year effort studying alternative approaches to treatment for chemically dependent pregnant women. The strategies emphasize a public health response to drug and alcohol dependency rather than a criminal/punitive response. Clients, who may be in either a residential or intensive outpatient track, receive maternity case management, medical and health care, chemical dependency treatment, and support services such as transportation, child care, fast-track eligibility determination, safe and sober housing, and parenting education. Nutrition services were not initially in the program plan. However, within six months of the opening of the outpatient and residential component, their provision was identified as an important objective. A nutritionist was initially brought on for four hours weekly; the position has been expanded to half-time over the past year. Individual nutrition services now include an initial assessment of all women, one-to-one nutrition counseling for all pregnant women, breastfeeding consultation, Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and food resource referral. Additional client services to the program include food service consultation, child care consultation, case conferences and group classes including prenatal nutrition, breastfeeding, infant feeding and nutrition for health. Menus have recently been revised to reflect the dietary guidelines. Staff education is also a priority with in-services scheduled quarterly. The Washington State WIC Program funded a breastfeeding promotion grant for the site during the past year which allowed the purchase of a videotape, handouts and posters to increase awareness of the value of breastfeeding among both staff and clients. Nutrition services are now perceived to be an integral part of the program by administration, staff and clients.