Jun 17, 2024
JUNE 14, 2024 - POTTSVILLE, PA - The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), Gaudenzia, Inc., helped to unveil Gaudenzia Inc.'s Driving Recovery for PA, the state's first mobile licensed narcotic treatment program. Gaudenzia, Inc., one of the country's largest nonprofit treatment providers for people with substance use disorder (SUD) and co-occurring conditions, Alvernia University, and state lawmakers were on hand for the official unveiling of this mobile initiative, which will bring evidence-based treatment and services to individuals struggling with SUD and co-occurring conditions to help save lives in Pennsylvania communities.
“Accessing lifesaving treatment should not be a barrier for any individual, no matter where you live,” stated Deja Gilbert, PhD, LMHC, LPC, FACHE. “Gaudenzia is committed to breaking down barriers so that any individual seeking treatment can get the help they need in order to achieve long-term recovery and live a healthy and fulfilling life. We are proud to be the first in the state to go beyond our brick-and-mortar locations and bring compassionate care right into communities who may lack treatment options through this unique and innovative program.”
Driving Recovery for PA aims to provide treatment to over 400 adults with an opioid use disorder (OUD) and 200 family members over the first five years in service. The mobile unit's opioid treatment program (OTP), which provides medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for people diagnosed with an OUD, is licensed through DDAP and certified through the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). In addition, Driving Recovery for PA's OTP is registered at the federal level by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
"Meeting people where they are, both physically and mentally - that's exactly what Driving Recovery for PA is doing for those battling the disease of addiction," said DDAP Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones. "With substance use at epidemic levels affecting hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians, it is imperative that we continue to make treatment accessible, affordable, equitable, and attainable. Driving Recovery for PA is a prime example of us removing the barrier of transportation in more rural settings and bringing care into local neighborhoods."
Speakers Include:
Andrew Schmitt, Director of Outpatient Services
Dr. Deja Gilbert, President & CEO
Dr. Philip Moore, Corporate Medical Director
Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, Secretary
Gaetan T. Giannini, Vice President for Graduate and Adult Education
