Zero Exposure Project Goals and Objectives

The Zero Exposure Project strives for excellence in maternal health by offering comprehensive education, support and resources to pregnant women and their families.  ZEP's objectives include:

• Pregnant women in Hillsborough County will be screened for substance use as a normal part of healthcare throughout the community.
• Newborns at area hospitals will be screened for Healthy Start and referred for appropriate community resources.
• Pregnant women who screen positive for substance use will receive an assessment by a resource liaison.
• Pregnant women found to be in need of treatment will be referred to treatment that is appropriate to their needs.
• The professional community will understand the impact of alcohol, tobacco and drug use during pregnancy and ways to intervene most effectively.
• An evaluation plan will be implemented throughout the life of the initiative which will show results relevant to Hillsborough County .