Substance use disorders pose a challenge to many around the United States, and treatment isn’t always as accessible as it should be. For those struggling with addiction, same-day care can be essential to beginning on the road to recovery. Providing immediate care ensures that individuals feel encouraged and supported when they are ready to take the first step in seeking help.
The courage it takes to arrive at a treatment center for the first time can be daunting and standard waiting times of 3-5 days can be dangerous. Many feel dejected and lose the will to seek help altogether; others may walk away thinking they have the opportunity to use “one last time,” which can lead to an overdose or worse.
That is why we are partnering with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, to open our second rapid access treatment program in Framingham, Mass. The center follows a proven effective “hub and spoke” model of care – the Framingham treatment center is the “hub”, where clients immediately undergo the admissions process, receive their first dose of medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and participate in ongoing MOUD treatment until they are stabilized. Clients are then referred to a “spoke” for continuing care. Spokes can be any of Spectrum’s fifteen outpatient treatment centers or another provider located closer to home.
Our first rapid access treatment program opened on Pleasant Street in Worcester in 2019. The newest location, much like the original, will be uniquely positioned to provide same-day access to MOUD treatment. Many have already benefitted from Spectrum’s on-demand care and caring staff in Worcester. “You get help with a lot of things at Spectrum, beyond just recovering from drugs or alcohol,” said Roslyn, a rapid access treatment client. “Sanjay Grant, Spectrum’s Program Director helped me look for a doctor, and we have conversations about what’s going on in the world, how it makes you feel. Whatever you need, they will find someone who can help you.” You can learn more about Roslyn’s story here.
The new Framingham program is scheduled to open on Tuesday, January 4, 2022, providing medication for opioid use disorder, along with mental health and recovery support to clients as soon as they need it. Same-day admission and walk-in access will be available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Visit our website to learn more, or call (508) 875-5801 for more information on rapid access to medication for opioid use disorder.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction or a substance use disorder, call Spectrum Health Systems at 1-877-MyRehab.
