West NY News

As National Children’s Health Month concludes this October, the Chautauqua County Health Department (CCHD) highlights efforts to address Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). This syndrome has been a concern for over 50 years, affecting newborns in Chautauqua County. The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) acknowledges the significance of Early Intervention services for children with NAS, allowing them automatic qualification for services through CCHD.

The NYSDOH Opioid Data Dashboard indicates that Chautauqua County has a higher rate of neonatal withdrawal syndrome diagnoses compared to statewide groups. NAS occurs when newborns experience withdrawal after exposure to substances like opioids during pregnancy. Symptoms such as tremors and irritability usually appear within 72 hours after birth.

For the first time, children with NAS qualify for CCHD’s Early Intervention Program, providing health resources and support earlier, leading to better health outcomes. Amy Snyder, an Occupational Therapist with the program, supports this change: “This new automatic qualifier means babies can be seen immediately and not wait for a doctor or hospital referral... It is much easier to red flag an atypical movement or sign and prevent it from becoming a pattern.”

The Early Intervention Program assists families from birth to age three at no cost. Services include developmental evaluation and various therapies. Lacey Wilson, Public Health Director of Chautauqua County, states: “Advocating for and working with the most vulnerable amongst us is very meaningful work... We are thrilled to be able to reach more babies and families earlier.”

The program offers health resources related to conditions associated with NAS, in-home support within daily routines, strategies for issues like feeding difficulties, and connections to additional services.

For more information about the CCHD’s Early Intervention Program or NAS, visit HealthyCHQ.com/Kids or the CDC website.

Chautauqua County Health Department is dedicated to supporting community health through innovative approaches and various programs aimed at disease prevention and public wellness.