Our Recent Work

This new policy brief, authored by Farley Team members Hannah Crook and Liza Creel, examines Medicaid’s critical role in addressing perinatal substance use disorder (SUD). Medicaid is the largest payer for behavioral health and labor and delivery services in the U.S. and plays a vital role in supporting pregnant and postpartum individuals with SUD.

In Colorado, several innovative Medicaid strategies are already in place, including expanded coverage and benefits. The state has also leveraged federal waiver authority to broaden services beyond traditional care, incorporating supports like housing, nutrition, and care coordination. Targeted programs such as Prenatal Plus and Special Connections provide multidisciplinary, team-based care, improving birth outcomes and supporting recovery. Colorado further supports those with perinatal SUD through reimbursement for peer support professionals and doulas, recognizing the importance of non-clinical supports.

The brief also highlights promising approaches from other states, including integrated care models, enhanced case management, and expanded inpatient and residential treatment options that allow parents to remain with their children.

Looking ahead, the brief outlines key considerations for bolstering Colorado’s response, including sustaining existing programs, expanding access to residential treatment, improving reimbursement for supportive services, and better integrating Medicaid with social support systems. Such steps could improve critical maternal and infant health outcomes.