If pediatric providers are aware of results, they can plan appropriately. If screening does not identify women at risk, pediatric providers have other opportunities to improve the care of infants. Pediatric providers can meet the first challenge by recognizing symptoms suggesting neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS)/NAS and instituting appropriate treatment. Treatment is the second challenge. For infants who are recognized and treated, treatment regimens may vary significantly between practitioners and facilities, affecting cost and length of stay. Standardized protocols for treatment of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and involvement in quality collaborative initiatives result in decreases in unnecessary health care utilization. The purpose of this project is to close the gaps in care of women and infants.

In 2017, WAPC received funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to 1) Increase the capacity of WisPQC; 2) Strengthen the data infrastructure; 3) Improve identification of infants with NAS/NOWS and standardize care; 4) Improve identification of women with opioid use disorder (OUD); and 5) Improve care of women with OUD.