New York Receives $9M in Federal Funding to Expand Opioid Addiction Treatment Services

Los Angeles, California -

In order to broaden its fight against opioid addiction, New York state will receive more than $9 million in federal funds. This was announced on Tuesday, December 4, by Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s administration.

Breaking down the $9 million total, nearly $6 million will be allocated for medication-assisted treatment, with a particular focus on areas upstate. This will help addicted individuals gain access to medications that they need in order to get through the recovery process safely. They will also gain access to medications that help through the withdrawal process.

Meanwhile, $2.1 million will allow for the development of five new recovery centers in areas that are yet to be announced. However, these five new recovery centers are expected to be created in areas perceived to have the highest need for the services.

"As the opioid epidemic continues to impact communities across the state, we are as committed as ever to expanding and enhancing programs that provide critical options for treatment," says Cuomo. "We will continue to take aggressive action to combat this crisis and work to ensure these lifesaving services are available to any New Yorker who needs them."

Specialized Treatment, Recovery Programs, and Other Initiatives are key. The remaining amount will go toward specialized treatment and other recovery programs in locations around New York state. This accounts for more than $1.3 million in funding. Those needing help can visit this website for help.

Funds are to be allocated for connecting people in recovery with transportation so that they don’t fall behind on treatments, especially if they live far away from the rehab center. $600,000 will be given to support increased transportation initiatives. It will allow individuals seeking treatment in their communities to reach their destination more easily.

Another program receiving funding trains first responders on how to care for patients that are intoxicated. This first responder training program will receive around $200,000 in funding. The state Bureau of EMS and Trauma Systems will develop classes to train EMS providers on how to work with intoxicated individuals. It will be developed with Regional Emergency Management Organizations.

The initiatives will be funded through the State Opioid Response Grant, which is administered by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Opioid addiction has become a widespread problem because of how accessible these prescription medications are. But one cannot discount the effectiveness of such medications for the treatment of conditions like chronic pain. And so addiction treatment is necessary for those who actually misuse the substances for recreational purposes.

Most treatment facilities offer combinations of medical detox and behavioral therapy in order to address the physical and mental health effects of opioid addiction. But addiction treatment is a highly personal process, and so programs must be developed for each individual’s specific needs. Comprehensive programs cater to a patient’s symptoms, for example.

Similarly, each county that will receive funding will be able to use the money in ways that cater to the area’s needs. Visit RehabNear.Me.