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A New Landmark for Colorado Families: Launching the Perinatal Substance Use Field Guide

By Amber Johnson, DNP, CNM, FACNM, CPHQ

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In Colorado, we believe that every family deserves a healthy start, rooted in compassion and evidence-based care. Today, we are taking a significant step forward in that mission.

We are thrilled to announce the official release of the Perinatal Substance Use Field Guide.

The Progress So Far

This launch comes at a pivotal moment for our state. New data reveals that Colorado has seen a 60% decrease in overdose-related maternal deaths—dropping from 20 in 2022 to 8 in 2023. While this progress is encouraging, our work is far from over.

To sustain this momentum, we must equip our healthcare providers and community partners with the tools they need to provide non-stigmatizing, high-quality care. This new resource is designed to do exactly that.

What is the Field Guide?

Developed in close collaboration with the Colorado Attorney General’s Office, the Field Guide is a comprehensive roadmap for clinical and community settings. It focuses on dyadic care—an approach that prioritizes the health and well-being of both the parent and the infant together.

Inside the toolkit, you’ll find:

  • Clinical Best Practices: Evidence-based guidelines for managing perinatal substance use.

  • Legal & Policy Insights: Guidance on navigating complex regulations while prioritizing family unity.

  • Sustainability Strategies: Tools to help organizations implement these practices for the long term.

“Recovery thrives when we replace stigma with support. This Field Guide is more than just a document; it’s a commitment to ensuring that no Colorado family has to navigate the journey to recovery alone.” — Phil Weiser, Colorado Attorney General

How You Can Get Involved

The Field Guide is designed for hospital administrators, clinical teams, social workers, and community advocates. Here is how you can help us continue this progress:

  1. Download the Toolkit: Access the full PDF and digital resources here.

  2. Spread the Word: Share this post with your colleagues and professional networks.

  3. Join the Conversation: Follow us on social media this week as we dive deeper into specific sections of the guide.

Together, we can ensure that Colorado remains a leader in maternal health and that our “North Star”—the health of parents and babies—remains our constant guide.

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