A new residential treatment program focusing on substance use disorders among Arkansas teens is set to open this month in Searcy, aiming to fill a critical service gap for families across the state.
Unity Health held a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week for the Adolescent Recovery & Wellness program, a 24-bed unit designed for youth aged 12 to 17. The program will operate at the Unity Health – Specialty Care facility, located at 1200 South Main Street.
Unity Health President and CEO LaDonna Johnston emphasized the program’s significance during the event, noting how it provides a vital resource for families who might otherwise have to seek care outside of Arkansas. “This unit provides hope for children and their families, and safe, quality care for a vulnerable group that needs our help,” Johnston said. “This is the first unit in Arkansas for substance abuse that accepts Medicaid payment. We are making history today.”
The facility is designed to provide a secure environment with separate accommodations for male and female patients. Typical stays range from four to six weeks and will address co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. Treatment will include therapy, psychiatric care, and relapse prevention planning, supported by 24-hour nursing care and special education services.
The abstinence-based program accepts both voluntary referrals and those involving the court system. It works with various insurance providers, including Medicaid and PASSE, to make these services accessible to a broad range of families.
The Adolescent Recovery & Wellness program is the culmination of efforts by Unity Health to provide specialized care tailored to the needs of Arkansas youths, particularly in a field where resources have been scarce within the state.
Further details about the program can be obtained through Unity Health officials or by contacting the Unity Health – Specialty Care facility directly.