A new program at Wabash Community Health Center is providing medication-assisted treatment for area residents struggling with substance dependence.
During Monday’s Wabash General Hospital Board meeting, Cathy Ruth reported that six patients have already received treatment through the clinic.
The program uses Suboxone to help patients stop using certain substances, including kratom. Following their initial treatment, patients return weekly for counseling, monitoring and medication adjustments when needed.
Ruth said patients have shown noticeable improvements after beginning treatment, becoming more engaged and reporting positive changes in their lives.
Some participants were already receiving counseling through the health center, while others are traveling from outside the immediate area, including Mt. Vernon.
Ruth said Wabash Community Health Center is currently the closest provider offering the treatment in the surrounding area and expects participation to increase as more people become aware of the service.
Patients are tested during visits and must agree not to use prohibited substances while participating in the program.