Newsletter October 2024
Utilization Management & Care Coordination
Skye Pletcher-Negrón, LPC, CAADC
Chief Population Health Officer
With National Recovery Month occurring in September, I thought it timely to share a fantastic success story MSHN
received from one of the region’s Opioid Health Home providers, Victory Clinical Services in Saginaw. MSHN will
continue to expand the presence of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Health Homes in the region during FY25 with
expanded eligibility for individuals struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder, Stimulant Use Disorder, or Opioid Use
Disorder.
Please join me in recognizing the incredible work being done every day by the region’s current health home
providers, with special recognition to the important role of peer supports and recovery coaches in helping
individuals achieve whole-person wellness through health home programs.
Success Story: A Journey of Triumph Through the Opioid Health Home Program
Amanda Hartley, RCPF (Recovery Coach Professional Facilitator)
Victory Clinical Services of Saginaw
As a peer recovery coach with the Opioid Health Home (OHH) Program at Victory Clinical Services I have had the
honor of helping many individuals on their journey to recovery. Sharing these stories is one of the greatest perks of
my job. Although there have been many successes one particular story comes to mind. To respect privacy, details
have been anonymized, but the essence of this individual’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of
the OHH program and the resilience of those we support.
When I first began working with this client, they were grappling with significant challenges. Enrolled in the OHH
program, they faced the dual burden of substance use disorder and a recent escape from a dangerous domestic
violence relationship and many complex dental issues. The road ahead seemed daunting, but the support provided
through the OHH program proved to be a cornerstone in their path to recovery.
One of the most notable achievements in their journey was securing their own apartment. This milestone
represented not just a new living space, but a safe and stable environment essential for rebuilding their life. Helping
my patient move into her new apartment was an amazing day for both of us. The OHH program's comprehensive
support played a crucial role in this accomplishment, offering guidance and resources that were instrumental in
helping them establish a secure safe home.
Throughout their time in the OHH program, my client demonstrated extraordinary dedication to their recovery. They
consistently attended all scheduled health and dental appointments, showcasing a profound commitment to their
well-being. The program's approach, which includes referrals for patients to access medical and dental care,
greatly contributed to their ability to prioritize and manage their health effectively.
Providing consistent clean urine drug screens (UDS) and reaching Level 6 in their recovery phases is a significant
milestone that underscores the effectiveness of the OHH program by eliminating obstacles of client’s everyday
lives, our clients are free to focus on their recovery. This achievement reflects not only the individual’s hard work
and perseverance but also the supportive framework provided by the program. The structured support and
resources available through OHH have been pivotal in helping them navigate the complexities of their recovery
journey and achieve such a notable level of success.
This success story highlights the profound impact of the Opioid Health Home program. It serves as a powerful
reminder of the program’s role in providing comprehensive support that addresses the multifaceted needs of
individuals in recovery. Through tailored care, resources, and guidance, the OHH program has proven to be an
essential component in transforming lives and fostering sustainable recovery.
As a peer recovery coach, sharing this story reaffirms my belief in the importance of programs like OHH.
Witnessing the profound positive changes in this individual’s life is incredibly rewarding and illustrates the
significant difference that dedicated, structured support can make. Their journey is a testament to the strength of
the human spirit and the effectiveness of the OHH program in guiding individuals towards a healthier, more stable
future.
We do recover.
For further information or questions, please contact Skye @ Skye.Pletcher@midstatehealthnetwork.org.