Substance Use in Pregnancy - Optimizing Retention in Treatment by Maximizing Opportunities for Management

Overdose is a national top-three leading cause of pregnancy-associated death, and maternal substance use disorder (SUD) accounts for an estimated $1.5 billion in healthcare spending each year. Treatment with medication and behavioral therapy lowers morbidity and overdose risk. However, studies have shown 55% to 80% of patients stop treatment within one year postpartum. Additionally, as a result of systemic inequities, historically marginalized patients are at greatest risk of overdose or death. We are conducting a study at WashU Medicine and University of Maryland, Baltimore clinics that offer prenatal care, addiction treatment, and extended postpartum support for patients facing the challenges of a SUD. Study participants will complete a structured screening and management of their social needs, and then will be randomly assigned to continue their usual care or to participate in a contingency management program, which provides incentives to continue treatment.