The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) Program is a crucial initiative designed to provide support for families affected by newborn substance exposure. CARA Navigators play a central role in this program, working collaboratively with families, hospitals, healthcare providers, and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs). Their primary goal is to identify and connect families with the most effective support systems available, while actively dismantling any obstacles that might prevent them from accessing these vital services. By thoroughly assessing each family’s unique needs, CARA Navigators ensure they receive tailored resources and assistance.
What is the CARA Program?
Originating from the 2016 Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), this program mandates that states offer supportive services to newborns who have experienced substance exposure. In New Mexico, legislation passed in 2019 paved the way for “plans of safe care,” which are designed to link families with voluntary support and treatment services for both the newborn and their caregivers. This legislation led to the establishment of The Cara Program under the New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department’s Family Services Division, demonstrating a commitment to addressing the needs of these vulnerable families.
Addressing Barriers to Accessing Care
Generational trauma and substance use can unfortunately perpetuate cycles that are difficult to break. These cycles are often reinforced by significant barriers such as societal stigma, unconscious bias, geographical limitations, and cultural or language differences. The CARA program directly confronts these challenges through proactive advocacy, comprehensive training, and consistent support for partners and stakeholders. A key focus is promoting trauma-responsive care, ensuring cultural safety, and implementing evidence-based strategies within Plans of Safe Care. This multi-faceted approach aims to create a more accessible and supportive environment for families seeking help.
It’s important to note that New Mexico law specifically protects families by stipulating that child abuse or neglect reports from birthing hospitals should not be based solely on a newborn’s substance exposure. This legal protection underscores the CARA program’s positive and resource-oriented focus, which is centered on connecting families with the resources necessary to foster health, safety, and overall well-being, rather than on punitive measures.
The Role of CARA Navigators
CARA Navigators are the cornerstone of the program’s success. They establish close working relationships with families, hospital staff, Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), diverse healthcare providers, and various support services. Through intensive case management, Navigators pinpoint appropriate support services and remain adaptable, adjusting their approach as the family’s needs evolve over time. This dynamic and responsive support system ensures that families receive continuous and relevant assistance.
The resources utilized by CARA are carefully aligned with the guidelines and best practices established by leading national agencies, including the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the National Office of Drug Control Policy. This alignment ensures that the program operates on a foundation of recognized and respected standards within the field of addiction and recovery.
Understanding the CARA Plan of Safe Care (POSC)
A CARA Plan of Safe Care (POSC) is instrumental in fostering family stability, ensuring safety, and promoting overall well-being. Through the POSC, families can voluntarily access a wide spectrum of services, including:
- Care Coordination & Case Management: Providing ongoing support and navigation through various systems.
- Medical & Dental Care: Ensuring access to essential healthcare services for both the newborn and caregivers.
- Substance Use Treatment & Recovery Programs: Offering pathways to recovery and ongoing support for substance use issues.
- Early Childhood Services:
- Home Visiting: Providing in-home support and education for new parents.
- Early Intervention: Addressing developmental needs of the child as early as possible.
- Child Care: Facilitating access to childcare services to support family stability.
- Financial Assistance:
- TANF, SNAP, WIC, and housing supports: Connecting families with crucial financial safety nets and resources.
For services not covered by an MCO, the CARA program can leverage resources from Children’s Medical Services, a bureau within the New Mexico Department of Health, ensuring a comprehensive safety net for families in need.
The CARA Approach: Non-Judgmental Support
The CARA Plan of Safe Care adopts a non-judgmental and supportive approach to help caregivers and their babies. It is designed to address the family’s holistic needs throughout the newborn’s first year of life, eliminating stigma and fostering a positive environment for growth and recovery. This compassionate and comprehensive strategy is key to the CARA program’s effectiveness in supporting families and building healthier communities.
