Behavioral health and substance use disorders are leading causes of preventable pregnancy-related deaths in Washington. To save lives and improve outcomes for birthing parents and infants, a new certification led by state agencies and WSHA launched this year.
Developed by the Washington State Department of Health, Washington State Health Care Authority and WSHA, the Center of Excellence for Perinatal Substance Use certificate recognizes hospitals that have significantly advanced their support for pregnant through best practices in perinatal care.
Our state’s first certificate recipients are:
- University of Washington Medical Center – Northwest of Seattle
- Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center of Spokane
- Providence Holy Family Hospital of Spokane
“Our hope for the certification is to set up care for parents and infants caught in a behavioral health crisis,” said Washington State Department of Health Chief of Prevention, Safety and Health Lacy Fehrenbach. “This joint effort is guided by proven science and compassion.”
The collaboration also supports the state’s Opioid and Overdose Response Plan. Between 2014 and 2020, 83% of all deaths from unintentional overdose during pregnancy, delivery and the year after giving birth involved opioids.
Hospitals must meet eight criteria to be certified, including screening for substance use, screening for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, providing treatment resources and ensuring follow-up care. Hospitals must also train staff and update policies and treatment practices to align with national best practice standards.
Want to learn more? Explore the full list of criteria for certification. (Kelly Akers)
