Substance use during pregnancy is a prevailing challenge for families, a crisis requiring supportive medical and policy solutions.
A team of Clinton School students including Evanna Ojeda, Jenna Ronquest, and Tori Scott partnered with the University of Arkansas for Medical Science’s Women’s Mental Health Clinic to evaluate the impact of “Garrett’s Law,” a state statute regarding prenatal substance exposure.
The team conducted a comprehensive study, analyzing case trends from 2016 to 2023 and facilitating focus groups with mothers in recovery and interviews with key stakeholders. Their research highlighted the need to better bridge the gap between legal requirements and supportive healthcare.
The students recommended strategies to enhance access to treatment and improve provider training. UAMS is now using these findings to conduct research, publish their findings, and develop a new educational curriculum for healthcare providers across the state. Ultimately, this collaboration aims to transform how providers support pregnant women, reducing stigma and saving lives.
The Clinton School Impact Minute is a recurring segment with Little Rock Public Radio, highlighting the Clinton School’s field service impact.
Since 2004, Clinton School students have completed nearly 700 field service projects with more than 300 organizations in Arkansas alone, creating immediate and long-term impact for businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies across the state.