SpectRUm – Roseman University College of Medicine’s EMPOWERED Program Partners with Intermountain Health’s PATH
Roseman University College of Medicine’s EMPOWERED program, founded in 2018 in Las Vegas, has successfully expanded its reach beyond Nevada to Weber and Davis counties in Utah in partnership with Intermountain Health’s Peripartum Addiction Treatment and Healing (PATH) program. This strategic expansion brings Roseman University’s expertise to communities in Utah, supporting pregnant and postpartum individuals who have used opioids and stimulants.
“This collaboration addresses a critical need in Utah, where drug-induced deaths are the leading cause of pregnancy-associated death, with most cases occurring during the postpartum period,” said EMPOWERED Executive Director Dr. Andria Peterson. “At EMPOWERED, we’re committed to offering pregnant and postpartum individuals non-judgmental support to guide them in their recovery so they can achieve resiliency and thrive as caregivers for their babies.”
EMPOWERED helps clients navigate the challenges of recovery, addressing their greatest needs and helping build a foundation for successful recovery. A cornerstone of the program’s approach is peer support, which connects clients with peer recovery support specialists who have had similar experiences, reducing feelings of isolation and providing encouragement.
A Collaborative Approach to Complex Challenges
To enhance care for mothers in recovery, EMPOWERED collaborates closely with Intermountain Health’s PATH program. Both organizations recognize that pregnant individuals with substance use disorder face unique challenges, including complications like Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) or Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS) in infants.
The PATH program offers virtual visits with obstetricians trained in addiction medicine, who create tailored care plans for participants. Their services include neonatal consultations, counseling, and medication for opioid use disorder.
“Our partnership with the PATH program creates a seamless support system,” notes Dr. Peterson. “While PATH addresses the critical medical needs during pregnancy, our EMPOWERED program extends that support with resources and community connections that help build foundations for long-term recovery and successful parenting.”
A Complete Pathway to Recovery
A typical journey through the complementary programs might begin with PATH for medical treatment during pregnancy. From there, EMPOWERED provides ongoing postpartum support, peer counseling, and help obtaining baby supplies, housing, employment, and more. This continuum of care supports both mother and baby through recovery and into healthy family life.
“The peer support component of Roseman’s EMPOWERED program is particularly valuable,” explains Dr. Peterson. “These connections build resilience and confidence as our clients navigate recovery and motherhood simultaneously.”
Reinforcing Roseman University’s Commitment to Community Health
This partnership exemplifies our university’s commitment to addressing critical health needs in our communities. By combining Roseman’s expertise in community health resources with Intermountain Health’s medical capabilities, we’re creating comprehensive solutions for vulnerable populations.
The expansion from Las Vegas to Weber and Davis counties demonstrates Roseman University’s dedication to bringing evidence-based support programs to communities where they’re needed most.