New Treatment

Northern Light Mercy Hospital has developed a better way to battle the opioid epidemic by equipping its Emergency Department staff with a new tool to get people started on the path to recovery. Mercy’s Rapid Access Treatment Program allows ED staff to begin treating people who meet the clinical criteria for opioid use disorder with suboxone while they are in the Emergency Department. The patient also receives a patient navigator who can immediately plan for a comprehensive assessment and ongoing treatment. As part of the program, a recovery coach will also remain engaged with the patient to assist with treatment and set up community supports such as sober housing, recovery-oriented support groups, and employment assistance.