MATCH Program Takes Off In Central Region
In the shadow of a relentless opioid epidemic, Hartford HealthCare has become a leader in addressing the challenges of addiction and mental health in a compassionate, accessible and discreet way with its rapidly expanding MATCH program.
MATCH, or Medication Assisted Treatment Close to Home, was introduced in the Behavioral Health Network (BHN) in early 2016 as a multi-faceted way of helping opioid users find lasting sobriety. The MATCH program is at 16 Hartford HealthCare locations across the state, including The Hospital of Central Connecticut’s New Britain campus and a recently opened second location in Southington at 98 Main Street.
MATCH combines the use of the FDA-approved medications such as Suboxone or Vivitrol to reduce cravings for opioids and alcohol with group therapy aimed at relapse prevention and opportunities for holistic treatment such as yoga. Through its various locations, the program has helped thousands of people from teens to adults. From July 1, 2017 through January 2018 alone, more than 2,500 clients with a diagnosis of opioid addiction came through the various MATCH locations.
Private physicians can prescribe medications to help patients find sobriety, but the value of MATCH comes in the support and health services offered as well. Classes in yoga, meditation, exercise and mindfulness are a part of MATCH to have a positive impact on substance abuse disorder, depression, anxiety and overall mental and physical health. Participants also benefit from a relapse prevention group to help improve their overall functioning and provide support throughout the recovery process.