This paper describes major accomplishments of the First Steps PLUS program during its first two and one-half years of operation. The project demonstrates key methods for improving coordination and linkages between maternity care and chemical dependency treatment providers, increasing the range of treatment options for pregnant substance abusers, and augmenting the content of treatment for chemical dependency among pregnant women. Authors find that First Steps PLUS increased access to both medical care and chemical dependency treatment for substance-abusing pregnant women and changed the standard of care for these high risk women in Yakima County.
