Behavioral Health Network Launches Mobile Methadone Program in Ware

WARE — Behavioral Health Network Inc. (BHN) has launched a mobile methadone program to help those struggling with opioid-use disorder. The program is the first of its kind in Western Mass., providing access to methadone from a 35-foot mobile treatment unit.

The mobile treatment unit will be parked at 75 Main St. in Ware, with dosing hours Monday to Friday, 7 to 10 a.m.The entrance to the parking lot is on Bank Street behind the building. Intakes for new clients will begin on July 9 on Tuesdays and Thursdays during regular operating hours.

Funded in part by the Massachusetts Bureau of Substance Addiction Services and the HEALing (Helping to End Addiction Long-term) Communities Study, BHN’s mobile methadone program provides methadone to individuals 18 and older in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, offering a holistic approach to treatment.

Methadone is a medication that has been used for 60 years to treat opioid-use disorder. When taken as prescribed, methadone is safe and effective and helps individuals achieve and sustain recovery and reclaim active and meaningful lives.

“BHN is extremely pleased and committed to expanding and improving access to opioid treatment,” President and CEO Steve Winn said. “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, added that “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.”

For more information about the new mobile methadone program, call (413) 272-1333. Most insurance plans are accepted.

BHN has four other Opioid Treatment Program clinics located in Springfield, Holyoke, Greenfield, and Orange and offers a full continuum of care and services for those in addiction recovery. Programs include inpatient acute treatment services, clinical stabilization services, residential recovery homes, transitional support services, outpatient treatment, recovery coaching, and driver alcohol-education services through the Massachusetts Impaired Driver Program.