The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) Program is a vital initiative dedicated to providing support for families impacted by newborn substance exposure. CARA navigators play a crucial role in this process, collaborating with families, hospitals, healthcare providers, and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs). Their mission is to connect families with the most effective support systems and overcome obstacles that might prevent them from accessing essential services. These navigators are also responsible for assessing each family’s unique needs and identifying additional resources to ensure comprehensive support.
What is the CARA Program?
Established through the 2016 Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), this program mandates states to offer supportive services for newborns exposed to substances. New Mexico enacted legislation in 2019 to implement plans of safe care, directing families towards voluntary support and treatment services for both newborns and their caregivers. This legislative action paved the way for the development of the Cara Program under the New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department’s Family Services Division. The core of the cara program lies in its proactive approach to supporting vulnerable families.
Addressing Barriers to Care
Generational trauma and substance use can unfortunately perpetuate due to significant barriers such as stigma, prejudice, geographical limitations, and cultural or language differences. The cara program directly confronts these challenges by advocating, educating, and supporting partners and stakeholders. This support emphasizes trauma-responsive care, cultural sensitivity, and the application of evidence-based strategies in implementing Plans of Safe Care. By actively working to remove these obstacles, the program aims to create a more accessible and equitable system of care.
The Role of CARA Navigators
CARA program Navigators are integral to the program’s success, working in close partnership with families, hospital personnel, Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), various healthcare providers, and support services. These navigators are responsible for identifying appropriate support services through intensive case management, ensuring that the support adapts to the evolving needs of each family. This dynamic and responsive approach is key to providing effective and long-lasting assistance.
Plan of Safe Care (POSC) Services
A Plan of Safe Care (POSC) within the cara program is designed to foster family stability, safety, and overall well-being. Through the POSC, families can access a range of voluntary services, including:
- Care Coordination & Case Management: Streamlining access to various services and ensuring cohesive support.
- Medical & Dental Care: Addressing the physical health needs of both newborns and caregivers.
- Substance Use Treatment & Recovery Programs: Providing pathways to recovery and ongoing support for substance use issues.
- Early Childhood Services:
- Home Visiting: Offering in-home support and guidance for new parents.
- Early Intervention: Addressing developmental needs of infants and young children.
- Child Care: Facilitating access to safe and nurturing childcare options.
- Financial Assistance: Connecting families with resources such as TANF, SNAP, WIC, and housing support to alleviate financial strain.
For services not covered by an MCO, the cara program can leverage resources from Children’s Medical Services, a bureau of the New Mexico Department of Health, ensuring a safety net for comprehensive care.
The CARA Approach: Non-Judgmental Support
The cara program and its Plan of Safe Care embrace a non-judgmental and supportive approach. It aims to help caregivers and their babies address family needs throughout the newborn’s first year. This approach focuses on empowerment and removes stigma, creating a safe space for families to seek and receive the help they need to thrive. The program’s core philosophy is rooted in providing compassionate and effective support without judgment.
