buprenorphine

North Carolina Launches Mobile Opioid Treatment Program Amidst Push to Combat Stigma and Expand Access

RALEIGH,NC – North Carolina has taken a important step forward in addressing the opioid crisis with the launch of its first mobile Opioid treatment Program (OTP) in Wake County. Operated by Morse Clinics, this innovative initiative aims to bring vital medication-assisted treatment directly to underserved communities, complementing broader efforts to combat the stigma surrounding opioid use disorder (OUD) and improve treatment accessibility.

The introduction of the mobile clinic coincides with a critical period for North Carolina, as state and county leaders prepare to make crucial spending decisions regarding over $1.5 billion in opioid settlement funds. These funds, to be distributed over 18 years, present a unique opportunity to bolster evidence-based recovery practices and dismantle the barriers that prevent many individuals from receiving life-saving treatment.

“We hope to get mobile clinics to all the corners of the state that don’t have treatment,” stated a representative involved in the initiative, highlighting the program’s ambition to reach every corner of North Carolina lacking accessible treatment options. Beyond mobile services, there are also ongoing efforts to integrate OUD medications into community health centers, further expanding reach.

The “Unshame NC” campaign, a key component of this broader strategy, is designed to shift public perception and foster a more supportive habitat for those struggling with OUD. By targeting the general public, policymakers, and the recovery community, the campaign seeks to influence policy and funding decisions by first changing attitudes.”We have a real opportunity to make an investment to end stigma,” commented Alyssa Kitlas,Wake County’s opioid settlement program manager. “Stigma keeps people we love from getting help, from talking about the challenges they’re going through, and honestly, puts people at risk of dying.” This sentiment underscores the urgency and importance of addressing the societal stigma that often exacerbates the opioid crisis.

The timing of these initiatives is particularly opportune, aligning with the influx of opioid settlement funds. This financial infusion provides a tangible means to support and scale up programs that have proven effective in treating OUD. As North Carolina navigates the allocation of these funds, the focus remains on evidence-based recovery practices and the critical need to reduce stigma.

For those interested in understanding how these funds are being utilized at the local level, a state dashboard offers insights into local government spending on opioid settlement initiatives. This transparency is vital as communities work to implement effective strategies to combat the ongoing opioid epidemic.