How Hurley's Peer Navigator program is helping to combat the opioid epidemic

Hurley Medical Center’s Peer Navigator program was developed to help pregnant and postpartum women who are currently suffering from or have a history of substance misuse. Courtesy photo

FLINT, Michigan — Hurley Medical Center’s Peer Navigator is an often overlooked and underutilized service. The program was developed by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Resources in response to the opioid epidemic. It seeks to help pregnant and postpartum women who are currently suffering from or have a history of substance misuse.

Tyonna McIntyre.
Tyonna McIntyre, the Peer Navigator at Hurley Medical Center, works one-on-one with these mothers to determine what their needs are, and to inform them of what resources are available in the community. Then, if desired, she helps connect them to those resources, including setting up appointments and accompanying them as needed.

Two of the most commonly recommended resources are home visiting programs. The Maternal Infant Health Program (MIHP) serves pregnant women and infants with Medicaid.

The Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) is an evidence-based, community health program that serves first-time mothers and their families for free.

Mothers can start working with Tyonna at any time during pregnancy and continue through 12 weeks postpartum. The earlier the mother begins, the more they will benefit from the available resources. The relationship between the Peer Navigator and the client is voluntary and free.

If you know someone who may benefit from these services or if you yourself would like more information, please reach out to Tyonna McIntyre, Peer Navigator Program. She can be reached at: 810-701-8597 or [email protected]

How Hurley's Peer Navigator program is helping to combat the opioid epidemic

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