Philadelphia’s first licensed mobile narcotic treatment program is now operating through a partnership between Merakey, a substance use disorder treatment provider, and the city’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services, PennWatch reported Oct. 12.
The Merakey Mobile Methadone Unit provides medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder in underserved areas of the city, including Kensington. Licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, the unit will provide services 365 days a year.
The program offers same-day access to medication, ongoing medication management, wound care, counseling and peer support. It is designed to help patients begin treatment and transition to longer-term outpatient care once stabilized.
During an initial phase at the Kensington Wellness Support Center, over 300 people started methadone treatment. Of those served, 96 were stabilized and connected with outpatient programs for continued care.
The mobile unit’s care team includes physicians, nurses, counselors, certified peer specialists and recovery specialists.
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