Technical Update No. 466: Virtual Care for Substance Use in Pregnancy and Post-Partum.

OBJECTIVE

To provide health care providers with the best evidence for using virtual models of care for pregnant or post-partum patients using substances.

TARGET POPULATION: The target population includes all women with a history of substance use, current substance use disorder, or risk of substance use disorder during pregnancy or the post-partum period.

OUTCOMES: Improved access, engagement, and continuity of care for individuals affected by substance use during the perinatal period through the integration of virtual care models into clinical practice.

BENEFITS, HARMS, AND COSTS: Virtual care offers enhanced accessibility, reduced stigma, and greater flexibility, particularly for underserved populations. However, challenges include variable access to technology, privacy concerns, and the need for provider training. The cost of implementing digital infrastructure may be offset by long-term improvements in maternal and neonatal outcomes.

EVIDENCE: This technical update is based on a systematic review of current literature evaluating the effectiveness, acceptability, and feasibility of virtual care for substance use and substance use disorder in pregnancy. Studies covered clinical outcomes, patient engagement, provider experiences, and system-level considerations from 2015 to 2025.

VALIDATION

METHODS

The authors rated the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. See online Appendix A (Tables A1 for definitions and A2 for interpretations).

INTENDED AUDIENCE: All health care providers who care for pregnant and/or post-partum women.

X ABSTRACT: Virtual care improves access to substance use treatment during pregnancy. Hybrid models of care reduce stigma, enhance engagement, and improve outcomes.

SUMMARY STATEMENTS: RECOMMENDATIONS.