In Northern Michigan rural communities, access to substance use disorder treatment is often limited or nonexistent. This creates significant challenges for those needing care and turns our region into a "treatment desert." Between 2018 and 2023, the opioid epidemic claimed 13,800 lives in Northern Michigan alone, many of them from rural areas. Additionally, mental health struggles have long been left untreated or under-treated in rural communities, an issue that has been exacerbated by the pandemic, leading to overwhelmed and already stretched healthcare systems.
Together, trying to meet these needs and find assistance can feel like an insurmountable feat. For individuals and families attempting to navigate these challenges and access the support they need, the journey can often feel overwhelming. With an understanding of this need and a desire to meet people where they are on their path to recovery, we at Addiction Treatment Services launched our ATS Mobile Unit Program in 2022. Starting in just two counties, our program has expanded to six, providing access to much-needed substance use disorder services.
Recognizing that addiction does not exist in a vacuum and is often intertwined with mental health struggles, trauma, and socioeconomic challenges, we have taken a holistic approach to treatment and recovery. Taking the time to understand the unique needs of individuals seeking assistance, we provide more than just substance use disorder treatment, mental health support, medication-assisted treatment, and harm reduction services. We also connect individuals to local community resources, including primary care, dental, employment support, and other agencies addressing social determinants of health, such as food insecurity and housing. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals receive the care they need to support their recovery journey.
A critical part of our success lies in our collaboration with other providers and community members. By working closely with local healthcare systems, mental health professionals, and social service agencies, we have created a strong network of support for each individual we serve. This collaboration allows us to provide a seamless, coordinated approach to care that addresses the unique challenges individuals in rural communities face.
From October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, our Mobile Unit Program provided 182 days of service, reaching approximately 339 individuals across six counties—Antrim, Kalkaska, Benzie, Leelanau, Manistee, and Wexford. During this time, we referred 79 individuals to residential, individual, or group therapy, peer support, and OHH/AHH services. On the ATS Mobile Unit itself, we provided 15 individual substance use disorder therapy sessions, 209 primary care supports, 53 peer support sessions, and 169 MAT-related visits (including 151 MAT-related virtual physician visits). These services are crucial in breaking down the barriers to care, especially in smaller communities.
Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to continue expanding our reach and providing ongoing support to rural communities. Committed to creating a safe and confidential environment where individuals can seek treatment without fear of judgment or exposure, we are launching an additional initiative to further collaborate with community members. From local law enforcement to community agencies, we are offering education and support to best serve these communities while changing the perception of addiction. This collective effort will continue to make a significant impact on individuals and families in Northern Michigan, ensuring everyone who needs support with substance use disorder treatment can get access to the resources they need.