Bennington, Vermont News
Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center Launches Drug Treatment Program for New Mothers
The hospital has introduced programs and training over the years to help providers treat pregnant patients who have substance use disorder. Read the story on VTDigger here: Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center birthing pavilion to establish drug treatment program for patients.
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Residents of Bennington County should take note of a significant new initiative at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, New Hampshire. The hospital has announced plans to utilize $900,000 in federal funds to establish an inpatient substance use treatment program within its birthing pavilion, addressing a pressing issue in maternal health.
Focus on Maternal Health and Substance Exposure
According to a report first published by VTDigger, DHMC has noted that it has the highest rate of babies born exposed to substances in New Hampshire. The new program aims to convert two private suites into specialized rooms for safe withdrawal management and treatment medication administration.
Daisy Goodman, a nurse midwife at DHMC, emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming environment for patients, stating, “The goal of the redesign is to create a space that feels welcoming and safe, rather than medical in nature.” The hospital plans to consult with former patients and recovery specialists to ensure the space meets the needs of its users.
Addressing Complex Challenges
The types of substances that new mothers are using have evolved, with many patients in 2026 primarily using fentanyl, which complicates withdrawal processes. Charge nurse Kate Olivia Stokes highlighted that this situation creates additional challenges for treatment, especially when both the mother and child are involved.
To combat these issues, DHMC has implemented ongoing training programs for its staff, focusing on treating substance use disorder as a chronic medical condition. This approach aims to reduce stigma and improve the care provided to pregnant patients.
Future of Treatment and Support
The hospital is inspired by successful programs at facilities like the Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, which has operated a specialized program for pregnant patients for over 30 years. In 2022, 12.5% of babies born at DHMC were found to have been exposed to various substances, indicating a critical need for this new program.
As part of the treatment pathway, patients will begin at the birthing pavilion for medication and stabilization before potentially transitioning to the Families Flourish Northeast facility, which is scheduled to open in summer 2027. This facility will provide a stable environment for mothers and their children, along with access to outpatient services.
Stokes noted, “All those pieces work together, because substance use conditions are a complex medical condition that requires a lot of support and treatment.” This holistic approach is vital for addressing the needs of mothers in our community.
In conclusion, the establishment of this program at DHMC marks a significant step forward in supporting mothers facing substance use challenges in our region. Local residents can look forward to improved resources and care for those in need.
Based on reporting originally published by VTDigger. Read the original story.
