Plans for a new treatment program in Benton County for individuals with substance use disorders will be discussed next month at public hearings by the Department of Social and Health Services.
Proponents of the program – Ideal Balance – say its services will improve access to essential health care for people dependent on opiates such as heroin and OxyContin.
Ideal Balance is requesting to be licensed and certified to operate at 8514 W. Gage Boulevard, Suite G, in Kennewick. Program components are medication such as methadone and buprenorphine, case management, therapeutic services and medical oversight.
More information on the effectiveness of medication-assisted treatment is here and here.
The hearings are scheduled February 11, 2016 at:
- The Kennewick Branch of Mid-Columbia Libraries, 1620 S. Union St., Kennewick. Sign-in will begin at 12:45 p.m. The hearing is from 1-2:30 p.m.
- The Pasco Branch of Mid-Columbia Libraries, 1320 W. Hopkins St., Pasco. Sign-in will begin at 3 p.m. The hearing is from 3:15-4:45 p.m.
People also may submit comments to Mary Testa-Smith by the close of business February 11.
In addition to being certified and licensed by the DSHS Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery), Ideal Balance must meet other state and federal and professional licensing and accreditation requirements.