Gifford Medical Center Expands Opioid Treatment Options for Local Patients

MONTPELIER, Vt. NewsWK — Residents of Bennington County now have improved access to opioid treatment thanks to a new initiative at Gifford Medical Center in Randolph. Starting recently, the facility has begun offering extended-release medication for opioid use disorder right in the emergency department, making it a significant resource for those in need.

Gifford Medical Center is now the only hospital in Vermont providing Sublocade, an injectable form of buprenorphine that helps reduce cravings for opioids for up to four weeks per dose. This change is particularly beneficial for patients who may find it challenging to manage daily medication schedules. By offering this treatment option in the emergency room, which operates 24/7, Gifford aims to streamline access for individuals seeking help.

Local Impact and Accessibility

This development is crucial for Bennington residents facing opioid addiction, as it enhances local treatment options. With Gifford’s outpatient addiction medicine program already serving approximately 40 patients on Sublocade, the emergency department’s new capability means that patients can start their treatment immediately without delays in medication orders. Roz Vara-Good, a nurse practitioner at the hospital, emphasized the importance of making effective treatments readily available, stating, “Addiction, like other chronic illnesses, is a treatable disease and we have extremely effective, evidence-based treatments available.”

For local officials and healthcare providers, this initiative represents a proactive approach to combat the ongoing opioid crisis affecting communities across Vermont. With the state’s recent decrease in opioid-related deaths, Gifford’s expanded services align with the broader efforts to improve access to treatment.

What You Need to Know

• Location: Gifford Medical Center, Randolph, Vermont.
• Treatment: Sublocade, an injectable opioid treatment available in the emergency department.
• Cost: Covered for most patients with Medicaid or private insurance; average monthly costs for Medicare patients vary.

This initiative not only serves as a vital resource for individuals struggling with addiction but also reflects a growing commitment from healthcare providers in the region to address the substance use crisis effectively.