More than 100 people gathered on October 19th for Spectrum Health Systems’ Annual Meeting held at the Beechwood Hotel in Worcester, Massachusetts. The evening underscored Spectrum’s ongoing efforts to address the opioid crisis.
In his opening remarks, President and CEO Kurt Isaacson emphasized the importance of hiring the right staff and what is meant by “The Spectrum Way” which he illustrated by playing a video containing several employee testimonials.
Chief Operating Officer Sherry Ellis presented this year’s annual report, highlighting the organization’s continued expansion which included opening two new outpatient treatment centers in Millbury and Weymouth, Mass., relocating to a larger outpatient facility in Pittsfield, Mass., and obtaining several new contracts throughout the country. Ms. Ellis also spoke about Spectrum’s commitment to developing and retaining staff through several new initiatives.
The keynote address was delivered by Jennifer Queally, undersecretary for law enforcement, who spoke of the new Buyer Diversion Treatment Alternative – a partnership between the City of Worcester, Worcester County District Attorney’s Office and the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) which allows eligible individuals arrested for purchasing heroin and other opioids, the opportunity to receive treatment rather than facing criminal prosecution. Spectrum Health Systems was selected by the City of Worcester to provide addiction treatment to those opting to participate in this program. If successful, the initiative will be expanded to other regions of the Commonwealth.
The evening concluded with two former clients, Audriana and Shane, sharing their personal stories of addiction and recovery. After completing treatment with Spectrum seven years ago, Audriana recounted how she turned her life around and reunited with her family. She is now a college graduate, married with children and living a healthy lifestyle.
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Based in Worcester, Massachusetts, Spectrum Health Systems, Inc. is a private, non-profit substance abuse and mental health treatment provider. Spectrum offers the largest and most complete continuum of addiction treatment in New England – including inpatient detoxification, residential rehabilitation, outpatient services, medication-assisted treatment and peer recovery support.
