Perinatal Health
Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) Safety Bundles
IMPLEMENTATION BUNDLE RESOURCES
Obstetric Hemorrhage
- Obstetric Hemorrhage is the second leading cause of death amongst birthing people and recognized as one of the most preventable complications affecting pregnant and postpartum people. Learn more about our implementation strategies to identify, treat, and prevent obstetric hemorrhage in Vermont.
- Simulation and Reference Materials
- Webinars
- National AIM Safety Bundle
Severe Hypertension in Pregnancy
- Hypertensive Disorders in pregnancy account for 6.5% of perinatal deaths in the United States. Hypertensive disorders place birthing people at a higher risk for cardiac disease later in life. We took a multi-step approach to identifying, treating, and educating on this topic.
- Simulation and Reference Materials
- Webinars
- 2023
- 2022
- National AIM Safety Bundle
Cardiac Conditions in Obstetric Care
- Cardiac Conditions account for the third leading cause of maternal death across the United States. It affects a small percentage of the birthing population but has catastrophic impact. In 2024, we will begin implementing strategies in which we can better detect, plan, and treat birthing people who have known or develop cardiac conditions.
- National AIM Safety Bundle
Care for Pregnant and Postpartum Individuals with Substance Use Disorder
- We are continuing Vermont’s ongoing work in this area by collaborating with the important stakeholders on this upcoming bundle. In October of 2024, we plan to launch the next AIM bundle by providing a webinar that will share what implementation of this bundle will look like for Vermont. This bundle requires wonderful collaboration with several community resources and services and will be a multi-year project. There is much overlap with other efforts focusing on this population through various projects that include PQC colleagues (ICON) and those with the Vermont Dept. of Health.
- National AIM Safety Bundle
AIM Maintenance of Implemented Bundles
MAINTENANCE OF IMPLEMENTED SAFETY BUNDLES
Tackling OB Drills - In Situ Drill Tacklebox
- We redesigned our OB Drill binder and pared it down to make it even more accessible and easy to use for our Providers and Staff on the inpatient obstetric and postpartum units.
- All the essentials are found in the tacklebox including three hypertension and three hemorrhage scenarios. We will use the structure created with these tackleboxes to add scenarios as we implement new bundles. Upcoming scenarios will include cardiac emergency, trauma-informed patient interaction, and working with patients with substance use disorder.
OB Drill Facilitator Workshop
- Running in-situ drills and facilitating debriefs is a skill that needs to be practiced and developed. We created and host 4-hour workshops to support interested Staff RNs and Providers in the basics of running drills, how to facilitate a pre-brief, and make the most out of debriefing sessions. We utilize the OB tackleboxes as our main resource.
- This workshop includes 2-2.5hrs of presentation content and then 1.5-2hrs of practice simulation. Attendees can pilot these new skills by performing the different roles and receiving feedback from the instructors and their peers.
Escape Room
- We are aiming to give Staff multiple ways to learn and engage in this content. We’ve created a few escape room adventures that do not require a facilitator to run.
RESOURCES IMPORTANT TO ALL AIM BUNDLES
Second Victims: Supporting Healthcare Providers After Adverse Events Webinar
- Dr. Aneesa Stewart is a Maternal Fetal Medicine Fellow at UVMMC and comes to us from the Mayo Clinic where they have a robust provider support system to help health care providers after a difficult event – also known as the second victims of an adverse outcome. Dr. Stewart will provide an overview of this topic along with tactics for support for health care providers after a serious event. This is a part of a larger education and training initiative and more information on that will also be provided during this webinar. This webinar occurred October 24, 2023.
- Second Victims: Supporting Healthcare Providers After Adverse Events Webinar Slides (PDF)
Collaborating with Emergency Department Colleagues
- One of the greatest challenges noted by our participating hospitals is the collaboration between the Obstetrics unit and the Emergency department. Many of the AIM bundles reference this collaboration especially in the recognition of pregnant or recently pregnant patients. One strategy we implemented was highlighting the most important elements in a checklist and then partnered with a guide of examples. This work was newly implemented in 2024 and is on-going in its use.
- Obstetric Unit & Emergency Department Collaboration on AIM Bundles Checklist (PDF)
- Obstetric Unit & Emergency Department Collaborations on AIM Bundles - 2024 Checklist Guidelines & Examples Slides (PDF)
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guidance
The Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide for parents and caregivers includes information regarding medications and substances that pass easily into breastmilk. Details include the effects on babies and what to do when breastfeeding. The guide has been translated into 16 languages.
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Arabic
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Bosnian
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Burmese
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Cantonese
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: English
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: French
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Karen
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Kirundi
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Korean
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Maay Maay
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Mandarin
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Nepali
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Portugues
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Somali
Breastfeeding & Substance Use Guide: Spanish
Educational Webinar Series
2025
- Care of Pregnant and Postpartum People With Substance Use Disorder: Official kickoff of the AIM Safety Bundle on the Care of Pregnant and Postpartum People With Substance Use Disorder. This webinar includes an overview of the bundle, the collaborative nature of this work, and how the AIM team will support our clinical partners in this work.
- Human Trafficking: Recognize, Refer and Collaborate: Participants explored how definitions of human trafficking shape prevention efforts and response strategies. The training will focus on recognizing trafficking indicators, delivering meaningful interventions, and building sustainable collaborations to support survivors effectively.
2024
- AIM Updates on Cardiac Conditions: During this AIM Updates webinar, Dr. Marjorie Meyer provides an overview of the Cardiovascular Disease in Pregnancy Maternal Safety Bundle and fosters discussion around the practice of screening.
- Changing Guidelines: An update on newborn exposure to Hepatitis C and HIV: Presenters discussed the prevalence and epidemiological trends of Hepatitis C and HIV infections among pregnant persons in the US as well as the new guidelines related to perinatal exposure to Hepatitis C and testing of infants and perinatal HIV exposure and breastfeeding. Guests for the Q&A portion included specialists Benjamin Lee, MD, Patric Infectious Diseases, UVM Medical Center and Nina Gluchowski, MD, Pediatric Gastroenterology, UVM Medical Center.
- Gestational Diabetes Management: This webinar will review the latest guidance on the Gestational Diabetes Management. Dr. Marjorie Meyer (Maternal Fetal Medicine) and Dr. Delia Horn (NICU) will provide information on both care for pregnant people with gestational diabetes and care of neonates born to people with gestational diabetes.
- Trauma-Informed Care in the Perinatal Period: Guest speakers Courtney L. Butts & Alexis Edwards offer training focused on Trauma-Informed Care in the Perinatal Period.
2023
- Demystifying Nurse Home Visiting: Increasing Acceptance of Prenatal and Postpartum Services: Katy Leffel will present reflections from physician champions about how to talk to families about the benefits of nurse home visiting, and how they promote and integrate referrals to nurse home visiting in their practice.
- Protection Against RSV Infection in Pregnancy: Learn about the options available for infant protection against RSV. Hear from VDH about statewide availability, perinatal clinical experts on recommendations, and about an information sheet for patients. This webinar will cover both the pregnant patient vaccine and newborn antibody protection.
- Watch the Recording: Protection Against RSV Infection in Pregnancy (video)
2022
- Best Practices on Substance Use Screening Presentation Slides (PDF)
- Cannabis Use in Pregnancy and Lactation in Vermont: Data review and care considerations Recording
- Cannabis Use in Pregnancy and Lactation in Vermont: Data review and care considerations Presentation Slides (PDF)
2021
- Prenatal Education for Families Affected by Opioid Use Disorder in Vermont Recording
- Prenatal Education for Families Affected by Opioid Use Disorder in Vermont Presentation Slides (PDF)
- Implementing the Plan of Safe Care in Vermont: Training, Technical Support and Live Q&A Session Presentation Slides (PDF)
- Vermont Plan of Safe Care 2.0: Updates and Tools to Improve Communication Presentation Slides (PDF)
Family Care Plan
Updated materials coming soon. For more information, please contact AHS.VDHFCPCAPTA@vermont.gov.
Improving Care of Newborns with Substance Exposure (ICoNS) Annual Statewide Conferences
2025 - Working Together: Optimizing Care through Statewide Collaboration
- Welcome and Opening Remarks
- From Policy to People: Human-Centered Collaboration on Perinatal Substance Use in Vermont: Presenters discussed collaborative approaches to improving outcomes for families affected by substance use disorder.
- Putting Families First: 2025 Revisions to the Family Care Plan: Presenters discussed a new system for the Family Care Plan - formerly called Plan of Safe Care - and how health care providers can use it to optimize safety and communication.
- Working Together in Clinical and Community Settings: Representatives from Lund, the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health, and the Bidirectional Learning for Improved Support and Services discussed innovative programs and initiatives geared toward improved care for pregnant and postpartum people affected by substance use disorder and their infants.
- Presentation Slides: Working Together in Clinical and Community Settings (PDF)
- Watch the Recording: Recovering Loudly Stories from Vermont Moms in Recovery (video)
- Watch the Recording: Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health AIM SUD Bundle (video)
- Watch the Recording: Bidirectional Learning for Improved Support and Services (BLISS) (video)
- Powerlessness to Purpose: Navigating Uncertainty in a Changing Landscape: Participants were able to identify and build on existing individual skills and collective resources to support emotional well-being.
2024 - Substance-Exposed Newborns and Families: Creating a Community of Practice Materials
- Learning Session Recording
- Opening Remarks Presentation Slides (PDF)
Clinical Utility of Perinatal Toxicology Testing Recording Timestamp: [00:09:30]
Clinical Utility of Perinatal Toxicology Testing Presentation Slides (PDF)
The New Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Guidelines for Breastfeeding and Substance Use: Putting It Into Practice Recording Timestamp: [01:09:35]
Parental Education and The Family Care Plan in 2024 Recording Timestamp: [01:41:40]
Parental Education and The Family Care Plan in 2024 Presentation Slides (PDF)
2023 - Coming Together to Support Infants and Families Affected by Substance Use in Pregnancy
- Opening Remarks Recording
- Opening Remarks Presentation Slides (PDF)
- Screening, Assessing, and Treading Pregnant Women with Substance Use Disorder Recording
- Screening, Assessing, and Treating Pregnant Women with Substance Use Disorder Presentation Slides (PDF)
- Vermont Home-Based Systems of Support for Women with Substance Use Disorder Recording
- Vermont Home-Based Systems of Support for Women with Substance Use Disorder Presentation Slides (PDF)
2022 - Reaching Across the Continuum: Making Connections to Optimize Care for Opioid-Exposed Newborns and Their Families
- Opening Remarks Presentation Slides (PDF)
- Continuous Compassionate Care for Families in the First Parenting Years Presentation Slides (PDF)
2021 - Adaptations and Innovations: Providing Care for Opioid-Exposed Newborns & Their Families in a Pandemic
Resources
Healing the Healers Resources
Johann Hari - “Chasing the Scream” 2015 (book)
National Council for Behavioral Health
SAMHSA’s Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach (PDF)
Resiliency Resources
The Center for the Developing Child at Harvard University
American Psychological Association
Brené Brown podcasts and books
Hoopes, L. ( 2017). Prosilience: Building Your Resilience for a Turbulent World, Dara Press
Developing Personal Resilience (by Linda Hoopes)
ICoNS Our Care Notebook
The Our Care Notebook is a booklet to help families affected by opioid use disorder navigate pregnancy and newborn care.
Full Our Care Notebook (2022) (PDF)
Our Care Notebook Sections
Substance Use Disorder Resources for Parents and Family
One More Conversation Can Make The Difference
- Find numerous fact sheets on the Vermont Department of Health Substance Use in Pregnancy website.
Other Parent and Family Resources
- Our Care Notebook 2022 (PDF)
- Cannabis Use and Breastfeeding Informational Flyer 2022 (PDF)
For patients who deliver at hospitals outside of the UVM Children's Hospital, view the video below to help you prepare for your hospital stay following delivery of a newborn exposed to opioids in pregnancy (2025).
- For patients who deliver at the UVM Children's Hospital, view the video below to help you prepare for your hospital stay following delivery of a newborn exposed to opioids in pregnancy (2022).
Substance Use Disorder Resources for Providers
One More Conversation Can Make a Difference Campaign Materials
- Tips and tools for the 9+ month conversation on substance use in pregnancy (PDF)
- Patient Fact Sheets (PDF)
- Promotional rack cards for intake packets (PDF)
- Office waiting room screens (PDF)
View the video below to learn more about the campaign, One More Conversation - Can Make a Difference
Cannabis Use and Breastfeeding
COVID-19 Vaccine
Home Visiting
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)
Northern New England Perinatal Quality Improvement Network (NNEPQIN)
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Support Delivered Campaign for Perinatal Mood and Anxiety
Testing
Vermont Department of Health (VDH)
Webinars
Gestational Diabetes Management
This webinar addressed the latest guidance on the Gestational Diabetes Management. Dr. Marjorie Meyer (Maternal Fetal Medicine) and Dr. Delia Horn (NICU) provided information on care for pregnant people with gestational diabetes and care of neonates born to people with gestational diabetes. This webinar was recorded on February 6, 2024.
Protection Against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection
This webinar addressed the emerging information around options available for infant protection against RSV; this included both the pregnant patient vaccine and the newborn antibody protection. Perinatal clinical experts, including Benjamin Lee, MD, Marjorie Meyer, MD, and Whittney Barkhuff, MD from the University of Vermont Medical Center, shared recommendations and details about available products. Katie Mahuron, RN, from the Vermont Department of Health discussed statewide availability. This webinar was recorded on November 1, 2023.
- Protection Against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection Presentation Slides (PDF)
Perinatal Mental Health
Vermont Resources
- Perinatal Psychiatric Consultation Service: Free consultations are available for medical providers, more details here. For free Perinatal Psychiatry Consultations call the Vermont Consultation and Psychiatry Access Program (VTCPAP) at 802-488-5342 or visit: https://www.vtcpap.com/.
- Support Delivered: Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Info & Resources
- Help Me Grow Vermont connects expecting and new families to mental health clinicians with specialized expertise in treating PMADs and other community services. Providers working with pregnant individuals and families who are experiencing PMADs can also make a direct referral by completing an online referral form.
Other ways to access VT resources
- Call 211, option 6
- Text HMGVT to 898211
- Email: info@helpmegrowvt.org
National Resources
GET HELP NOW
HRSA Maternal & Child Health
Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
Postpartum Support International
Call or text during business hours 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD)
In An Emergency
- Suicide and Crisis Lifeline OR Call 988
- National Crisis Text Line OR text HOME to 741741
Education
Project SCOPE: Supporting Children of the OPioid Epidemic
Project SCOPE: Supporting Children of the OPioid Epidemic
The goal of Project SCOPE Vermont is to help providers develop effective screening, monitoring, and interdisciplinary support for children and families with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, or NAS, is a medical condition in infants who go into opioid withdrawal shortly after they're born.
About Project SCOPE Vermont
We want to help health care providers learn better ways to care for infants suffering from problems related to opioid withdrawal.
The CDCI is receiving support from the Wyoming Institute for Disabilities (WIND) to improve training & supports for children and families with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). The work is called Project SCOPE: Supporting Children of the OPioid Epidemic.
The effects of NAS can extend beyond infancy. All families with NAS are eligible for Children’s Integrated Services (CIS), but participation is inconsistent around the state. We want to make sure CIS providers are trained in this approach alongside healthcare and other providers to increase interdisciplinary care.
Project SCOPE Vermont Learning Series
The 2022 SCOPE Vermont learning series sessions were intended for anyone working with children and families affected by opioid use including healthcare providers, children’s integrated services providers, educators, and more. All sessions used the ECHO framework to share best practices in an engaging all-teach, all-learn model. Each session included an expert presentation on the topic, an interactive case presentation, and group discussion.
All materials from the sessions -- full recording of the session plus speaker materials -- are included here for your reference.
Session 1
Introduction to the Opioid Crisis and Social Determinants of Health Recording
Introduction to the Opioid Crisis and Social Determinants of Health Handout (PDF)
Session 2
Session 3
Session 4
Monitoring Development in Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome and Children's Integrated Services Recording
Session 5
Session 6
Trauma-Exposed Children: A Primer on Impact, Trauma-related Responses, and Intervention Recording
Session 7
Sessions 6 & 7 Handouts
Session 8
Comprehensive Nurse Home Visiting: Scope, Services, Duration Recording
Comprehensive Nurse Home Visiting: Scope, Services, Duration Handout (PDF)
Session 9
Horizons: A Model of Compassionate Dyadic Care Recording
Horizons: A Model of Compassionate Dyadic Care Handout (PDF)
If you have questions about Project SCOPE Vermont, please send an email to VCHIP.PQCVT@med.uvm.edu.
Funding
This project is supported in part by grant number 90DDUC0062, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects with government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official ACL policy.
Safe Infant Sleep
Safe Infant Sleep Education Module
Welcome to an online education module on safe sleep for registered nurses working in community birthing hospitals in Vermont.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a safe sleep environment that can reduce the risk of sleep related infant deaths. This education module aims to reduce the number of infant deaths in Vermont due to unsafe sleep environments.
This safe infant sleep education module was created by and is the property of graduate students and faculty in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program at the University of Vermont College of Nursing and Health Sciences in collaboration with the Vermont Child Health Improvement Program (VCHIP) and the Vermont Department of Health (VDH). All rights reserved. No part of this education module may be reproduced, reused, replicated, or transmitted in any form without express written permission.
- Safe Sleep Education Module Access
- For continued quality improvement, please complete this short, four question Safe Sleep Survey after finishing the Education Module.
Vermont Safe Sleep Committee
The Vermont Safe Sleep Committee has created patient-facing materials for families. Visit the University of Vermont Medical Center Injury Prevention Safe Sleep resources.
Vermont Department of Health
Wellness Support for Maay Maay Speaking Families
Wellness Support for Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders
This video addresses wellness supports for Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) for Maay Maay speaking families and pregnant people living in Vermont. This short video can be used by health care professionals serving Maay Maay speaking families. The video is 7-minutes long.
Early Childhood
Parents and Caregiver Resources
Provider Resources
Lead Poisoning
- Lead Poisoning Prevention Guidance for Health Care Providers | Vermont Department of Health
- Pediatric Blood Lead Testing Guideline (7/2022) (PDF)
- Lead Poisoning Prevention Fact Sheet (11/2021) (PDF)
- What Your Child’s Lead Test Means (7/2022) (PDF)
Public Health Laboratory Information
- Order Public Health Lab Lead Test Kits (9/2021) (PDF)
- Instructions for Capillary Blood Lead Testing- Public Health Lab [rev. 6 (12/15)] (PDF)
- Contact Information Public Health Lab
- Lead Resource Guide for Providers
Access to Lead Tab in Patient Profile
- Please sign the Provider Confidentiality Agreement and fax to 802-863-7483 or email to AHS.HealthyHomes@vermont.gov.
Supporting Vermont's Early Childhood System
CATS on the Move
The CATs on the Move projects unite the departments of Psychological Science, Exercise Science, and Education to provide school-based physical activity programs aimed toward increasing the amount of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity that children experience in their daily lives.
School Age and Adolescent Health
Collaborative Improvement and Innovation Network (CoIIN)
The Adolescent and Young Adult Behavioral Health Collaborative Improvement and Innovation Network (AYA-BH CoIIN)
AYA-BH CoIINs working to improve the health of AYAs (ages 10-25) by strengthening the capacity of state MCH programs and clinical providers to address the behavioral health needs of AYAs.
Confidentiality Information
- Adolescent & Young Adult Health Care in Vermont - A Guide to Understanding Consent & Confidentiality Laws (PDF)
- Adolescent Health Working Group: Understanding Confidentiality and Minor Consent in California - An Adolescent Provider Toolkit (PDF)
- Journal of Adolescent Health: Confidentiality Protections for Adolescent and Young Adults in the Health Care Billing and Insurance Claims Process
- VCHIP: Understanding Confidentiality (PDF)
COVID-19 Resources
Vaccines for Youth Discussion
- Dr. Rebecca Bell discusses the COVID-19 vaccine for youth (Video). Dr. Rebecca Bell is a Pediatric Critical Care Physician at the University of Vermont Medical Center Children's Hospital.
Conversations with Youth
- COVID-19 and Youth: Telemedicine & Youth: A Conversation with the VT RAYS (PDF)
- Virtual Youth Forum with Lieutenant Governor Zuckerman (Recording) hosted by Vermont Afterschool
Coping During a Pandemic
- COVID-19 and Youth: Caring for Youth: Resources for Providers (PDF)
- Family Resources for a Pandemic
- STI Screening During a Pandemic with Short Supplies (11/4/2020; Dr. Erica Gibson) (PDF)
Letters from Youth
Featuring two VT RAYS members who wrote about their time during COVID-19. (posted with permission)
Posters Created By Youth For Youth
Eating Disorders Information
The following two sections are for Providers and Family and Caregivers.
For Providers: Multidisciplinary Care Recommendations
- American Psychiatric Association Interactive Tool for screening, diagnosing and planning for treatment for eating disorders
- Eating Disorders: A Guide to Medical Care, Academy for Eating Disorders, 2021, 4th Edition (10/2023) (PDF)
- Eating Disorder Care Recommendations: Primary Care Providers, Emergency Room Providers, Registered Dietitians, Mental Health Providers (PDF)
- AAP Clinical Report: Identification and Management of Eating Disorders in Children and Adolescents (PDF)
- Position Paper of the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine: Medical Management of Restrictive Eating Disorders in Adolescents and Young Adults (PDF)
- AAP Clinical Report: Preventing Obesity and Eating Disorders in Adolescents (PDF)
- Nutrition Tips for a Balanced Diet: Starter Guide from Whole Health Nutrition (PDF)
- National Eating Disorder Association Parent Toolkit (PDF)
- UVMMC Inpatient Pediatrics Voluntary Nutritional Deficiency Pathway for Medical Stabilization: Family Booklet (Aug 2020) (PDF)
For Family and Caregivers
Regional Resources for Eating Disorder Care
- Regional Mental Health Providers with Eating Disorder Experience (PDF)
- Registered Dietitians with Eating Disorder Experience in the VT Region (PDF)
- Regional Eating Disorder Programs with Intensive Outpatient Programs and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PDF)
- Residential Eating Disorder Treatment Programs (PDF)
- Regional Outpatient Adolescent Eating Disorder Services: Western NH/Northern MA/Eastern NY (PDF)
Adolescent Eating Disorder Assessment Clinic (EDAC): Call (802) 847-4696 - Evaluation for assessment of disordered eating behaviors and recommendations/resources for care. Evaluations are limited to a three-visit consultation, with a focus on assessment, diagnosis and recommendations/resources for care. EDAC does not provide any treatment or ongoing care, but the care team remains available for phone consultation to primary care teams after patients are seen. EDAC social worker is available for consultation to families and providers regarding resources.
Websites
- Vermont Child Psychiatry Access Program (VT CPAP)
- F.E.A.S.T. 30-day Email Support Program: Families Empowered And Supporting Treatment for Eating Disorders; an international non-profit organization of and for parents and caregivers of loved ones affected by eating disorders
- WithAll: WithAll empowers adults with the tools they need to help young people develop a positive body image and relationship with food. Parent’s page includes printable guides to support conversations about body and food.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness: Eating disorder specific page offers tips and helpline
- The Emily Program: Eating Disorder Treatment Center; website offers printable educational materials, resources for families and virtual support and education programs.
- National Alliance for Eating Disorders: Support groups
- Full Bloom Project: Podcast sponsored by Body-Positive Home, a learning and healing hub empowering families to nurture a more embodied and inclusive next generation
- The University of Vermont Weight-Inclusive Nutrition (WIN) Research Group
Handouts
- National Eating Disorder Association Parent Toolkit (PDF)
- Nutrition Tips for a Balanced Diet: Starter Guide from Whole Health Nutrition (PDF)
- Parents Survive to Thrive Guide (PDF): Resource guide written by families with lived experiences, developed by British Columbia Children’s Hospital
- Information Sheet: Virtual support groups with options for caregivers and those struggling with disordered eating (PDF)
Books
- How to Nourish Your Child Through an Eating Disorder by Casey Crosbie, RD and Wendy Sterling, MS, RD
- The Parent’s Guide to Eating Disorders by Marcia Herrin
- 8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder: Effective Strategies from Therapeutic Practice and Personal Experience (8 Keys to Mental Health): Costin, Carolyn, Grabb, Gwen Schubert, Rothschild, Babette
- Help Your Teenager Beat an Eating Disorder (Lock, James, Le Grange, Daniel)
- How to Raise an Intuitive Eater by Sumner Brooks and Amee Severson
- Fat Talk: Parenting in the Age of Diet Culture by Virginia Sole-Smith
- More Than A Body by Lexi and Lindsay Kite (female-focused)
- Raising Body Positive Teens by Signe Darpinian, Wendy Sterling, Shelly Aggarwal
- No Weigh (written for teens) by Signe Darpinian, Wendy Sterling, Shelly Aggarwal
- The Body Positivity Journal by Meghan Sylvester (great for creating writing prompts and self-reflection exercises)
Firearms and Suicide Prevention
Visit the Firearms and Suicide Prevention page for more information.
General Adolescent Health
The following three sections are for Providers, Youth, and Family and Caregivers.
For Providers
- AAP Bright Futures Periodicity Schedule
- Vermont Child Health Improvement Program
For Youth
- Center for Young Men’s Health at Boston Children’s Hospital
- Center for Young Women’s Health at Boston Children’s Hospital
For Family and Caregivers
Gender Affirming Care
Mental Health Information
For Providers
- Family Resources for a Pandemic
- Vermont Center for Children, Youth and Families
- Does My Teen Need Help?
- Pediatrics: Guidelines for Adolescent Depression in Primary Care - Part 1 (PDF)
- Pediatrics: Guidelines for Adolescent Depression in Primary Care - Part 2 (PDF)
- Pediatrics: Suicide and Suicide Attempts in Adolescents (PDF)
- PHQ-9 Modified for Adolescents/Teens (PHQ-A) with Scoring (PDF)
- PracticeWise Evidence-Based Child and Adolescent Psychosocial Interventions (PDF)
- The Teen Years Explained - CHAPTER 3: Emotional and Social Development (PDF)
- The Teen Years Explained - CHAPTER 4: Forming an Identity - Mental Health (PDF)
Sexual and Reproductive Health
The following two sections are for Providers and Youth.
For Providers
- Beyond the Effects of Comprehensive Sexuality Education: The Significant Prospective Effects of Youth Assets on Contraceptive Behaviors
- Birth Control for Men
- Color Photos of Combined and Progestin-Only Oral Contraceptive
- Depo-Provera Perpetual Calendar
- Guttmacher Institute Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health in the United States
- How Well Does Birth Control Work (Bedsider.org)
- Healthy Relationship Quiz (loveisrespect.org)
- OOPS! Emergency Contraception
- Quick Start Algorithm (Birth Control)
- Reproductive Health Access Project Contraception Handout
- Teen Condom Fact Sheet
- The Teen Years Explained - CHAPTER 5: Sexuality (PDF)
- Vital Signs Preventing Teen Pregnancy (PDF)
- What's the Risk? (Bedsider.org) (PDF)
- Your Birth Control Choices
APPS
2015 STD Treatment Guidelines
For Youth
Substance Use Information
The following three sections are for Providers, Youth, and Family and Caregivers.
For Providers
- Alcohol
- NIH National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
- Vaping
- General
- AAP Clinical Report: Substance use screening, brief intervention and referral to treatment
- Center for Adolescent Substance Abuse Research (CeASAR): The CRAFFT Questionnaire (version 2.1)
- National Council for Mental Wellbeing
- Parentup Vermont
- Stimulant Misuse on the Rise in Vermont (PDF)
- Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) - Contract for Life
- Summary of Substance Disorder Treatment in Vermont: Age, gender, county, substance
- The Teen Years Explained - CHAPTER 2: Cognitive Development - Effects of Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs on the Developing Adolescent Brain (PDF)
- Vermont Department of Health
For Youth
- Drug Facts: National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) for Teens
- National Institute on Drug Abuse: Easy-to-Read Drug Facts
- Vermont Department of Health - How do I find alcohol and drug addiction treatment in Vermont?
For Family and Caregivers
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
School Health Resources
As VCHIP aims to improve the health of Vermont’s children, we recognize and celebrate the role that school administrators, educators and, school-based health professionals play in supporting the health of children, through the provision of healthy school environments, nutritious meals, health education, physical education and activity, health services and more. Many VCHIP projects and affiliated clinicians have already identified this opportunity and have built strong partnerships with schools and school-based professionals.
Our work in the coming year will include inventorying current partnerships between VCHIP projects, physician practices and schools across the state; conducting landscape analysis of best practices in academic and pediatric partnerships to advance school health; and interviewing key health, educational and community stakeholders in Vermont on the role(s) that VCHIP can most effectively play to advance the health of children through the lens of schools. By the end of the fiscal year, we aim to finalize a strategic vision and plan for VCHIP’s school health portfolio moving forward.
School Health Data
School-Based Health Centers
- Are you a school-based clinician looking for support from the Vermont Department of Health? You can find your school liaison in a Local Health Office near you.
Opening School-Based Health Centers in Vermont
- The link below will take you to a manual made by a Vermont Nurse Practitioner with much knowledge about School-Based Health Centers. The goal of the manual is to assist health professionals, school administrators, and any others that would like to open or expand a School-Based Health Center in Vermont.
- A Guide to Opening a School-Based Health Center in Vermont (PDF)
- School-Based Health Alliance is a national organization for school-based health centers and health care. This website has a plethora of information for administrators and school staff along with helpful resources for those looking to learn about SBHCs in their area.
Examples of School-Based Health Centers in Vermont
- The following links are examples (not an exhaustive list) of School-Based Health Centers in VT.
- Hazen Union School SBHC
- Middlebury Union Highschool SBHC
- Integrated Arts Academy SBDC
- Burlington High School SBHC
American Academy of Pediatrics School Health Key Resources and Policy Statements
- Council on School Health
- Role of the School Physician (2013)
- Role of the School Nurse in Providing Health Services (2016)
Federal Resources
Well-Being Action Plan
The Well-Being Action Plan Story
A primary care pediatrician at the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital Primary Care Practice was looking for a way to support children to identify emotional coping skills and strategies to manage the normal ups and downs of life. She needed a tool that could be used to proactively provide anticipatory guidance about managing emotions. She also needed a tool to help youth self-identify additional needs when their current strategies were not working. In 2018, Drs Green and Smith created the Well-Being Action Plan (WBAP). The WBAP was developed with feedback of pediatricians, psychiatrists, adolescent specialists and psychologists in Burlington Vermont.
Well-Being Action Plan with Implementation Guide (PDF) Note: For printing purposes, there is a blank page after the Implementation Guide, before the WBAP.
Feedback about the WBAP is welcome, please email: andrea.green@uvmhealth.org
Citation
Andrea E. Green, MDCM, Benjamin Smith, MD, The Pediatric Well-Being Action Plan. 2018
Copyright: University of Vermont
Terms of Use of the Well-Being Action Plan
By downloading the Well-Being Action Plan (“WBAP”), the user agrees to the following terms and conditions.
Ownership
The WBAP is owned by the University of Vermont.
No Modification
The WBAP, whether in English or translation, may not be modified in any way without the written consent of the creators or their proxies. Anyone wishing to modify or translate the WBAP should contact Vermont Child Health Improvement Program (VCHIP) at (802) 656-8210 or email.
Limited License to Make Copies
A printable version of the Well-Being Action Plan may be downloaded from the VCHIP website and can be printed without charge by individuals or organizations provided that such organizations or individual do not request or receive payment or reimbursement from the child, family or insurance provider. In addition, an electronic version of the WBAP may be used for clinical care or research provided that the provider or researcher does not request or receive payment or reimbursement from the child, family or insurance provider. No other rights to copy, use, distribute, or display the WBAP are granted.
No Commercial Use
The WBAP may not be used for commercial use.
No Warranty
The WBAP is provided “as is”, without warranty of any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to the warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and noninfringement. In no event shall the authors, UVM or VCHIP be liable for any claim, damages or other liability, whether in an action of contract, tort or otherwise, arising from, out of or in connection with the use of WBAP.
Governing Law
These terms of use will be governed by the laws of the state of Vermont.
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Additional Information for Providers
Adolescent Friendly Services
- 3 Keys to Health Services – Youth Friendly
- Adolescent Health Initiative (AHI) Youth-Friendly Services Starter Guide
- NM Adolescent & Young Adult Health CoIIN: Know Your Health Toolkit (Google Slides)
- Standards of Youth Centered Care (Image)
- VCHIP’s Adolescent and Youth Friendly Clinic Assessment Tool (PDF)
- Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs (AMCHP)
Adolescent Health Working Group (ahwg)
- Adolescent Health Care 101: The Basics - CA Edition (PDF)
- Behavioral Health - An Adolescent Provider Toolkit
- Understanding Confidentiality and Minor Consent in California: An Adolescent Provider Toolkit (PDF)
- IDPH: Understanding the Roles
- Inspiring Healthy Adolescent Choices: A Rationale for and Guide to Strength Promotion in Primary Care
- Strength-based interviewing
- Vermont Department of Health: READY for Life: Building Adolescent Strengths (PDF)
Immunizations: Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Interviewing
Recommended Visits and Risk Screening
- Confidential Adolescent & Young Adult Questionnaires - The University of Vermont Children's Hospital
- Screening
Online Training Opportunities for Healthcare Providers
- Affirming, inclusive medical homes course
- Adolescent Immunization Update and the 16-Year-Old Platform
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Role Play Simulations for Clinical Training
- University of Michigan Adolescent Health Initiative: Spark Trainings
- Adolescence 101 (Video)
- Introduction to Motivational Interviewing (Video)
- Motivational Interviewing: OARS Skills (Video)
- Pedicases: Effective Interviewing of Adolescent Boys and Young Men
- Seeking Common Ground: Managing Challenging Adolescent Behaviors (Video)
- AYA Video Library
Additional Information for Youth
Additional Information for Family and Caregivers
Child Health Advances Measured in Practice (CHAMP)
CHAMP Resources
Children with Special Health Care Needs
Center on Disability and Community Inclusion
The CDCI is Vermont’s University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service, otherwise known as a UCEDD. We provide accessibility services to students, teach academically and beyond, and conduct research to improve disability services and advocacy policies.
Learn More About the Center on Disability and Community Inclusion.
Medical Care and Coordination for Children Entering Foster Care
Vermont Resources
The Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) mission is to foster the healthy development, safety, well-being, and self-sufficiency of Vermonters.
Policy 77: Medical Care for Children and Youth in DCF Custody (2/2020)
The purpose is to establish division policy regarding the authorization of medical care and the requirements for meeting the health needs of children and youth in DCF custody.
If you suspect that a child is being abused or neglected, call 1-800-649-5285 to report it 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Information about reporting child abuse or neglect
- Family Services Division Data
- Vermont Child Psychiatry Access Program
- Vermont Child Welfare Training Partnership The Kin, Foster and Adoptive Family (KFAF) training team collaborates with the Vermont DCF Family Services Division, community partners and caregivers to strengthen the caregiver system for children, youth and families by providing high quality, trauma informed, family-centered, interculturally responsive training, resources and supports.
Educational Webinars
- May 9, 2023: James Metz, MD and Mary-Ellen Longworth, MSW presents Medical Neglect: How to Identify and Intervene (Slides) (PDF)
- May 3, 2023: A Facilitated Discussion - Building Strengths to Buffer ACEs: Focus on Foster Care (Slides) (PDF)
- April 12, 2023: Kristy Trask, RN presents Care Coordination and Shared Plans of Care (Slides) (PDF)
- March 1, 2023: Pete Cudney, LICSW presents Fostering Trauma Informed Care: Key’s Practices for Medical Providers working with Children in Foster Care (Slides) (PDF)
- Brenda Gooley presents at Pediatric Grand Rounds: Department for Children and Families Family Service Division Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice (Slides) (PDF)
- April 20, 2022: VCHIP presents at Pediatric Grand Rounds: Step up For Children Entering Foster Care-Enhancing Communication and Comprehensive Care (Slides) (PDF)
National Resources
- In 2015, the American Academy of Pediatrics published a policy statement and a technical report on Health Care Issues for Children and Adolescents in Foster Care and Kinship Care (Policy Statement; Technical Report. These documents give guidance on recommended timing and content of health care visits for children and youth entering foster care. In 2020, the Vermont Department for Children and Families began aligning with these guidelines in order to provide excellent care for children and adolescents in custody Medical Care for Children and Youth in DCF Custody.
- Trauma-informed care (TIC) is defined by the National Child Traumatic Stress Network as medical care in which all parties involved assess, recognize, and respond to the effects of traumatic experiences on children, caregivers, and healthcare providers. In the clinical setting TIC includes the prevention, identification and assessment of trauma, response to trauma and recovery from trauma as a focus of all services. Pediatricians can support the caregiver-child relationship, the context in which there can be recovery from trauma and the restoration of resilience. TIC is characterized by an understanding that traumatic experiences can impact the brain and body and can present as problematic behaviors and health issues. These conditions need to be treated as medical concerns, not willful or punishable actions. (National Child Traumatic Stress Network. (n.d.). Trauma types. Retrieved September 22, 2022, from www.nctsn.org/trauma-informed-care.
- Resources Related to Trauma
Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care
Welcoming Youth and Young Adults with Autism and Complex Care Needs in Your Practice (PDF)
Educational Content
- Presentation created by Liliane Savard, PT, DPT, PSC that includes several resources. Motivational Interviewing Resources (PDF)
- Dr. Rich Pinkney and Dr. Alan Rubin provide their recommended resources in the attached document that helps to further explore motivational interviewing for supporting the transition from pediatric to adult care. Adolescent Brain Development and Communication Strategies (Recording)
- Dr. Erica Gibson discusses brain development, communication strategies and supporting the transition from pediatric to adult care. Three young adult patient advisors share their experiences, perspectives and recommendations for improving the transition from pediatric to adult care. Transition Journey’s to Adult Focused Care: Perspectives from Young Adults (Recording)
UVM Autism Collaborative
The UVM Autism Collaborative is a joint project of the UVM Center on Disability & Community Inclusion (CDCI), the UVM College of Nursing and Health Sciences, and the UVM Medical Center.
Care Coordination Collaborative for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs
Collaborative Meetings
Meeting #15: VCHIP Care Coordination Collaborative Update
VCHIP and VITL Shared Plans of Care Project Update Summary (PDF)
Meeting #14 - December 6, 2024: VCHIP Care Coordination Collaborative Update
VCHIP and VITL Shared Plans of Care Project Update Summary (PDF)
Meeting #13 - October 24, 2024: VCHIP Care Coordination Collaborative Workgroup Meeting
Meeting #12 - September 27, 2024 (Rescheduled): VCHIP Care Coordination Collaborative Update
Meeting #11 - September 12, 2024: VCHIP VITL SPoC Workgroup Meeting
Meeting #10 - August 27, 2024
Meeting #9 - August 13, 2024
Meeting #8 - June 25, 2024
Meeting #7 - June 11, 2024
Meeting #6 - June 4, 2024
Meeting #5 - November 1, 2022
Meeting #4 - June 28, 2022
Meeting #3 - April 26, 2022
Meeting #2 – March 29, 2022
Meeting #1 – March 22, 2022
Data
Resources
General
National Care Coordination Standards for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs
Shared Plans of Care
The VCHIP VITL Definitions (PDF) document outlines several commonly used terms and definitions related to care coordination functions and activities.
ECO Maps
Child Population Health
Healthcare Utilization
- Green Mountain Care Board (GMCB) Vermont Health Care Uniform Reporting and Evaluation System (VHCURES)
- VDH Data Encyclopedia (PDF)
- NCQA – HEDIS Measures and Technical Resources
- Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) – Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP)
- Core Set of Children’s Health Care Quality Measures for Medicaid and CHIP (Child Core Set), 2023 (PDF)
- Blueprint for Health – Community Health Profile Data
Population Mental Health
- Vermont Department of Mental Health, Children, Youth, and Family Unit
- Vermont Department of Mental Health, Public Information
- National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- Follow-Up After Emergency Department Visit for Mental Illness (FUM), NCQA, HEDIS
Children, Youth, and Families Mental Health Integration
ADHD Resources
- Checklists
- Sample Consent and Letters
- Student Information Forms
Vermont Consultation & Psychiatry Access Program (VTCPAP)
Vermont Consultation & Psychiatry Access Program: Serving Pediatric and Perinatal Providers
Free consultations are available for medical providers, more details here. For free Perinatal Psychiatry Consultations call the Vermont Consultation and Psychiatry Access Program (VTCPAP) at 802-488-5342 or visit: https://www.vtcpap.com/.