BHN offers mobile methadone program in Ware

WARE, Mass. (WWLP)– For persons living in rural locations, substance abuse treatment can be difficult to find and get to, but one local organization is working to change that.

The Behavioral Health Network, Inc. (BHN) now has a first of its kind mobile methadone program that can travel to areas in need. The program offers methadone to persons 18 and older, along with counseling and behavioral therapies.

This program is in addition to BHN’s Opioid Treatment Program clinics and addiction recovery programs in Springfield, Holyoke, Greenfield, and Orange.

BHN’s President and CEO Steve Winn said, “BHN is extremely pleased and committed to expanding and improving access to opioid treatment. The Mobile Methadone Program allows us to bring comprehensive, evidence-based treatment to rural communities and those without treatment resources. We can provide more access to medication-assisted treatment to more people who need help.”

Dr. Ruth Potee, Medical Director for Substance Use Disorders at BHN, said, “This will be the first Mobile Methadone Program in this area, helping to reduce barriers to treatment access in Ware and surrounding towns. Methadone is one of the most effective treatments for opioid use disorder, especially in the fentanyl era. We are pleased the patients and families in the Quaboag Hills region will have ready access to this life-saving medication.”

Methadone is a medication that has been used successfully for 60 years to treat opioid use disorder. When taken as prescribed, methadone is safe and effective and helps persons struggling with addiction achieve and sustain recovery, improving their quality of life.

The mobile treatment van is available Monday through Friday, from 7am to 10am at 75 Main Street in Ware. Intakes for new clients will begin on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, continuing on Tuesdays and Thursdays during regular operating hours.

For more information about the new Mobile Methadone Program, call 413-272-1333. Most insurance plans are accepted.

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