Ob/gyn providers can play a crucial role in helping to combat the opioid epidemic in their patients, both by screening patients and by referring them to treatment programs, according to a commentary in this month's . However, more research is still needed about the best methods of maternal and infant treatment for opioid dependence, said authors , of University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and , of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.
In this video, Krans explains the window of opportunity that ob/gyn specialists have in helping their opioid-dependent patients, and the additional research that is needed to investigate long-term health outcomes of these mothers and babies.
Primary Source
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Krans EE, et al "Opioid use disorder in pregnancy: health policy and practice in the midst of an epidemic" Obstet Gynecol 2016; DOI: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000001446.