OLYMPIA–The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is holding two hearings Wednesday, December 7 to allow the public an opportunity to comment on a proposed opiate substitution treatment program in Lakewood.
Northwest Integrated Health has been providing treatment for individuals with substance use disorders since 2013, with clinics in Puyallup, Tacoma, and Lakewood, using medication assistance when appropriate. Northwest Integrated Health plans to expand access to essential health care for people dependent on opioids such as heroin and OxyContin by dispensing medication (such as methadone or buprenorphine) and providing case management, therapeutic treatment services, and medical oversight at its clinic located at 9720 South Tacoma Way, Lakewood.
Northwest Integrated Health must be approved by DSHS, Washington State Department of Health, federal Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to provide opiate substitution treatment.
Public hearings are scheduled in Pierce and Thurston counties on December 7, 2016 at the following locations:
-
Timberland Regional Library, 500 College Street SE, Lacey. The hearing is from 1:15 to 2:45 pm. Sign-in begins at 1:00 p.m.
-
Pierce County Library, 6300 Wildaire Road SW, Lakewood. The hearing is from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Sign-in begins at 3:45 p.m.
Information about the effectiveness of medication-assisted treatment for opioid disorders is available online, as are facts for families and friends.
For more information about substance use treatment services, visit the DSHS Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery’s website.