ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
We ensure that New Mexicans attain their highest level of health by providing whole-person, cost-effective, accessible, and high-quality health care and safety-net services.
Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA)
The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) Program is designed to support families whose child has been born substance exposed. New Mexico passed legislation in 2019 to provide plans of safe care, which refer families to voluntary support and treatment services for the newborn and their caregivers. During the 2025 New Mexico Legislative Regular Session, the Governor signed Senate Bill 42 into law that made significant changes to the implementation of CARA in New Mexico.
Changes Coming to CARA
As of July 1, 2026, the administrative and oversight responsibilities for CARA will move from the Children, Youth and Families Department to the Health Care Authority.
The Plan of Safe Care (POSC) will include substance use disorder (SUD) treatment or prevention services and will include either Home Visiting services or early intervention Family Infant Toddler (FIT) services.
A universal, evidenced-based screening tool will help providers assess needed services for the mother and evaluate the health of the newborns.
Hospitals and health care providers will be trained on CARA and the Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) model.
How CARA helps newborns and mothers
CARA aims to reduce the stigma surrounding substance use during pregnancy and increase access to services. Universal substance use screening helps providers refer patients to the program during and after pregnancy.
CARA connects pregnant people to evidence-based harm reduction support services to help them meet their health goals.
CARA supports families with physical and emotional needs during and after pregnancy and referrals to community-based support services that enhance family development and support the child’s growth and health.
CARA Navigators
With the Department of Health and HCA, CARA Navigators will work closely with families, hospital staff, and managed care organizations (MCOs) to identify needs and coordinate services for the newborn, mother, and family. CARA Navigators will work with families during pregnancy, provide in person support and information at the hospital, and will support and follow the mother and baby after discharge.
A Plan of Safe Care (POSC) to Support Families
A Plan of Safe Care, developed for each family, helps to ensure stability, safety, and well-being after leaving the hospital. The Plan of Safe Care may include, but are not limited to:
- Medical & Behavioral Health Services
- Substance Use Treatment & Recovery programs
- Early Childhood services such as Home Visiting, Early Intervention, and Child Care
- Assistance with other programs such as TANF, SNAP, WIC, and housing support
Please join HCA on Jan 7, 2026 11-12 on Teams for a CARA Public Listening Session:
CARA Public Listening Session | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams
Resources for Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) prescribers:
- NM Bridge 24/7 Urgent Call Line 1-800-222-1222
- NM Bridge FAQ: https://www.nmbridge.com/faq/
- UNM PALS line: 505-272-2000
Other Resources:
To report suspected child abuse or neglect, dial #SAFE from a mobile phone or call (855)-333-7233.
CARA Kickoff Meeting Agenda October 7, 2025 PDF