GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES EXPANSION OF ADDICTION TREATMENT SERVICES

Downstate detox center, increase in individualized treatment services, and informational website part of Statewide efforts

Photos from the event

Wilmington, DE - Building on ongoing efforts to address the addiction epidemic in Delaware and the growing need of drug treatment services statewide, Governor Markell today unveiled efforts to expand addiction treatment services and support for Delawareans impacted by addiction.

"Across our state, too many of our neighbors and their family members are impacted by their loved one's addiction to heroin, prescription drugs, alcohol or other substances," said Governor Markell. "We must remain committed to opening the doors to addiction treatment because people deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential, free from the pain that addiction brings."

Part of the efforts unveiled include establishing a new withdrawal management treatment center in Sussex County to serve individuals who live downstate. Currently, the State operates one detox center,NET Kirkwood Detoxification Center ,in New Castle County. In addition, the State plans to offer more individualized treatment services at both locations through variable lengths of stay and increased supervision for those who require intense monitoring.

Funding for the new facility, which totals $950,000, is part of the $1 million that was approved by the General Assembly for FY15 to address gaps in the State's drug treatment services after the Governor called for additional resources in his State of the State address. The other $50,000 of those funds will allow the Delaware Division of Public Health to work closely with Delaware school nurses to expand the "Smart Moves, Smart Choices" prescription drug abuse education and prevention campaign statewide.

"Above all else, we will achieve our greatest success if we can educate and prevent substance use among our young people," said Governor Markell.

Recognizing the importance of education and prevention in addressing the addiction epidemic, the State also launched www.helpisherede.com/ ,an information website that puts an emphasis on prevention, treatment and recovery; and announced the launch of a public awareness campaign that will support the website and focus on reducing the stigma associated with addiction.

The Governor also expressed his gratitude to Members of the General Assembly, including Senators Margaret Rose Henry and Bethany Hall-Long, as well as Representatives Mike Barbieri, Helene Kelley and Michael Mulrooney, who have worked with the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), advocates, health care providers and other community leaders to help shape the state's priorities to address addiction.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.