Alomere Health Recognized for Efforts to Reduce Substance Use Disorders
Alexandria Echo Press
Alomere Health has been recognized by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) for its efforts to reduce substance use disorders (SUDs) in the community. The health system was awarded a $1.2 million grant to implement a program aimed at improving access to and quality of care for individuals with SUDs.
Collaborative Approach
The program, known as “Integrated Care for Substance Use Disorders,” involves a collaborative approach between Alomere Health and community partners, including: * Becker County Human Services * National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota * Parkers Prairie Hospital * Perham Health * Tri-County Health Care
Focus on Prevention, Intervention, and Treatment
The program focuses on three key areas: *
Prevention:
Community education and awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and increase knowledge about SUDs. *
Intervention:
Identifying and providing early intervention services to prevent SUDs from escalating. *
Treatment:
Comprehensive treatment services for individuals with SUDs, including medical, behavioral, and social support.
Evidence-Based Practices
Alomere Health will implement evidence-based practices that have been proven effective in reducing SUDs, such as: * Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) * Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) * Motivational interviewing * Peer support groups
Addressing Underserved Populations
The program will also prioritize addressing the needs of underserved populations, including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those living in rural areas.
Expanding Access to Care
The grant will enable Alomere Health to expand access to SUD treatment services in the community by: * Increasing the number of providers trained in SUD treatment * Establishing a dedicated SUD treatment clinic * Offering telehealth services to reach individuals in remote areas
Community Impact
The Integrated Care for Substance Use Disorders program aims to make a significant impact on the community by: * Reducing the number of overdose deaths * Improving the health and well-being of individuals with SUDs * Strengthening families and communities affected by SUDs “We are honored to receive this grant and excited to implement this program in collaboration with our community partners,” said Dr. Jeremy Stiegler, Medical Director of the Alomere Health Substance Use Disorders Program. “We believe that by working together, we can create a more supportive and effective system of care for individuals and families affected by SUDs.”
Alomere Health Recognized for Efforts to Reduce Substance Use Disorders
Alexandria Echo Press
August 3, 2023
Alomere Health has been recognized for its innovative efforts to reduce substance use disorders in the community. The health system received the “Excellence in Substance Use Disorder Treatment” award from the Minnesota Department of Health. The award recognizes Alomere Health’s implementation of a comprehensive approach to substance use disorder treatment, which includes: *
Increased access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
: Alomere Health has expanded its MAT services, which combine medications with counseling and behavioral therapies, to make them more accessible to patients. *
Peer support programs
: The health system has established peer support programs to connect patients with others who have experienced similar challenges and provide a safe and supportive environment for recovery. *
Community outreach and education
: Alomere Health has partnered with community organizations to conduct outreach and education campaigns to raise awareness of substance use disorders and reduce stigma. *
Collaboration with law enforcement
: The health system has worked closely with local law enforcement to identify and refer individuals with substance use disorders to appropriate treatment services. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team,” said Dr. Amy Carlson, Chief Medical Officer at Alomere Health. “We are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care and supporting them on their journey to recovery.” The Minnesota Department of Health noted that Alomere Health’s efforts have contributed to a significant decrease in substance use disorder-related deaths and overdose incidents in the community. “Alomere Health is a model for other health systems in the state,” said Dr. Sarah Bosshardt, Deputy Commissioner of Mental Health at the Minnesota Department of Health. “Their innovative approach has helped countless people get their lives back on track and has made a real difference in our community.”