New opioid treatment center opens at Lincoln Hospital in Bronx

In the Bronx, New York, a new treatment center is being established at Lincoln Hospital to address the opioid crisis, which has resulted in the highest rate of overdose deaths in the city. Announced last week, this multi-million dollar investment aims to create a centralized location for both medication and therapy services, which are currently located a mile apart. Dr. Mark Sinclair, the director of substance use services at Lincoln Hospital, emphasizes the importance of accessibility in treatment, stating that making it easier for individuals to receive care can significantly improve their chances of success. The initiative comes in response to the alarming rise in drug use and overdose deaths in the Bronx, particularly in areas like St. Mary's Park, where drug paraphernalia has been prevalent. By consolidating services, officials hope to reduce public drug use and create a supportive environment for recovery. The new center is expected to begin construction in 2025, with plans to triple the current treatment capacity. Mercedes Santiago, a patient at Lincoln Hospital's recovery center, shares her personal success story, crediting the facility with helping her regain her passion for art and her life. Her experience highlights the potential for recovery when individuals have access to comprehensive support and community. Overall, the establishment of this centralized treatment center represents a significant step towards combating the opioid epidemic in the Bronx, aiming to provide better resources and support for those struggling with substance abuse.