In a significant move to address the challenges of substance abuse treatment, North Carolina has introduced a program designed to help individuals navigate the complex landscape of addiction recovery services. This initiative comes in response to growing concerns about unethical practices within the industry, where some facilities prioritize profit over patient well-being.
Addressing Unethical Practices in Addiction Recovery
State lawmakers have expressed alarm over the prevalence of profit-driven treatment centers that fail to provide the necessary care for those battling addiction. Representative Jim Burgin highlighted the issue, stating, “Bad actors have taken advantage of people when they’re at their lowest, and we can’t allow that anymore.” This sentiment underscores the urgency of implementing measures to protect vulnerable individuals seeking help.
The N.C. Treatment Connection Program
To combat these challenges, the North Carolina Treatment Connection program has been established. Representative Tim Reeder, a physician, emphasized the program’s mission: “Sadly, there are some providers and facilities who unethically manipulate patients for financial gain. It sabotages real recovery. It costs lives.” The program aims to connect individuals with treatment providers who operate ethically and prioritize patient care.
Comprehensive Support for Recovery
Beyond the Treatment Connection program, North Carolina offers a range of resources to support individuals in their recovery journey. The Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Centers (ADATCs) provide specialized programs tailored to the complex needs of their patients, including perinatal treatment, opioid treatment, and services for trauma survivors and veterans. These centers focus on short-term, medically monitored detoxification and crisis stabilization, preparing adults with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders for ongoing community-based recovery services.
Ensuring Quality Care
The state’s commitment to quality care is further demonstrated through the establishment of Recovery Courts. These courts offer intensive, judicially supervised interventions targeting individuals involved in the criminal and juvenile court systems with substance use, mental health, or co-occurring disorders. By closely managing cases, Recovery Courts aim to help participants become healthy, law-abiding, and productive members of their communities.
Guidance and Resources for Individuals Seeking Help
For those seeking treatment, North Carolina provides extensive resources to assist in finding appropriate care. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers free and confidential emotional support 24/7. Additionally, the Alcohol/Drug Council of North Carolina operates a crisis line at 800-688-4232, providing information and referrals to alcohol and drug treatment services. Local Management Entity/Managed Care Organizations (LME/MCOs) serve as valuable points of contact, offering guidance and support tailored to individual needs.
A Holistic Approach to Recovery
The state’s approach emphasizes a holistic view of recovery, recognizing the importance of addressing both substance use and mental health disorders. Programs are designed around best practices and evidence-based principles, as established by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). This includes comprehensive assessment and treatment planning with participant involvement, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and adequate treatment duration.
Looking Ahead
As North Carolina continues to refine and expand its substance abuse treatment programs, the focus remains on ensuring that individuals receive the support and care they need to achieve lasting recovery. The introduction of the N.C. Treatment Connection program marks a significant step toward a more ethical and patient-centered approach to addiction recovery in the state.
References
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WRAL News. (2025). New NC program offers guidance for substance abuse treatment. Retrieved from https://www.wral.com/story/new-nc-program-offers-guidance-for-substance-abuse-treatment/21856678/
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North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Centers. Retrieved from https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/state-operated-healthcare-facilities/facilities/alcohol-and-drug-abuse-treatment-centers
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North Carolina Judicial Branch. (n.d.). Recovery Courts. Retrieved from https://www.nccourts.gov/courts/recovery-courts
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More Powerful NC. (n.d.). Finding Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.morepowerfulnc.org/get-help/finding-treatment/
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North Carolina Department of Justice. (n.d.). Resources – Confronting the Opioid Epidemic. Retrieved from https://ncdoj.gov/opioid/resources/
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