Course Overview
This webinar is free and available for all learners, from 5/26/26-5/26/27.
Developed in recognition of April as Alcohol Awareness Month, this training explores Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (PAE) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) through the perspectives of healthcare professionals across a range of disciplines. Spanning early childhood through adulthood, it highlights the importance of recognizing, addressing, and supporting individuals affected by PAE and FASDs across systems and throughout the lifespan.
The training also reviews prevention strategies, the importance of normalizing alcohol use screening during pregnancy, and the ways FASDs can present differently over time. Common myths and misconceptions surrounding prenatal alcohol exposure are addressed, with a focus on improving long-term outcomes for individuals and families.
The session concludes with an examination of strength-based approaches, strategies for reducing stigma, and considerations for life beyond the diagnosis. Policy initiatives, including the FASD Respect Act, are also highlighted as essential components of a comprehensive and compassionate response to FASDs.
Course Information
Course Description
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) are preventable conditions that can have lifelong effects on physical, behavioral, and cognitive development. This course explores the critical role medical assistants and other health care professionals play in preventing alcohol-exposed pregnancies, identifying prenatal alcohol exposure, recognizing signs of FASDs, and supporting affected individuals and families. Learners will review the importance of universal screening, early identification, patient education, and referral pathways.
The course also emphasizes compassionate, nonstigmatizing care and highlights practical strategies for advocacy, interdisciplinary collaboration, and connecting patients and families with appropriate resources. Participants will gain tools to help promote alcohol-free pregnancies and improve outcomes through prevention, early intervention, and ongoing support.
Learning Objectives
As a result of completing this course, learners will be able to:
- Describe the impact of prenatal alcohol exposure and the spectrum of conditions associated with FASDs.
- Identify the importance of universal screening for prenatal alcohol exposure across the lifespan.
- Recognize common signs and symptoms that may indicate an FASD and warrant further evaluation.
- Apply patient-centered strategies to support alcohol-free pregnancies and reduce stigma surrounding diagnosis and intervention.
- Discuss referral pathways, community resources, and collaborative approaches that support individuals and families affected by FASDs.
Course Contributors
Doug Waite, MD, FAAP
Developmental-behavioral pediatrician who shared expertise on the identification, diagnosis, and support of individuals affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
Roxanne S. Chang, MD
General pediatrician in Los Angeles County representing the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), contributing perspectives on developmental disabilities, neurodivergence, and family-centered care.
Sandra Gonzalez, PhD, LCSW
Associate Professor and mental health clinician at Baylor College of Medicine, representing the Medical Assistant Partnership for Healthy Pregnancies and Families (MAP), and contributing expertise in prevention, education, and clinical support strategies.
Jeff Quinlan, MD, FAAFP
Chair of Family Medicine at the University of Iowa and representative of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), contributing expertise in family medicine and FASD prevention initiatives.
Intended Audience
This course is designed for medical assistants, CMA (AAMA) professionals, nurses, allied health personnel, and other ambulatory care team members involved in preventive care, maternal health, pediatrics, and family medicine. Learners will gain practical skills to support screening, patient education, early identification, care coordination, and advocacy related to prenatal alcohol exposure and FASDs.
Course Evaluation
Your feedback is important! Please take a minute after the course to complete the brief post-course survey as it helps inform future offerings.
Retake Information
Please note that retakes for this online course require repurchase.