Louisiana Confronts Maternal Opioid Crisis at 10th Annual Summit

The summit, titled "Addiction and Maternal Health: Opioid Use in Vulnerable Populations," gathers healthcare leaders and policymakers at the Bayou Pointe Event Center to bridge the gap between clinical research and community support. Dr. Monteic A. Sizer, Executive Director of NEDHSA, notes that addiction has long destabilized families and placed infants at unacceptable risk, necessitating a shift toward science-based, integrated care models.

More than 200 attendees will review emerging treatment trends and stigma reduction efforts. The event also highlights the expansion of the R.I.S.E. Treatment Center, an initiative providing specialized services for pregnant women struggling with substance use. By combining behavioral health, primary care, and peer support, the program aims to stabilize mothers while maintaining family connections, serving as a blueprint for the regional recovery infrastructure.