Togus VA Breaks Ground on New Substance Use Disorder Facility
The Togus VA Medical Center is expanding its services with a new residential rehabilitation treatment program for veterans battling substance use disorder. This new facility aims to fill a longstanding gap in the care available at the Togus campus.
“Missing Link” in Treatment Finally Addressed
The residential treatment center will provide 12 beds, offering veterans the chance to receive comprehensive care for substance use disorder and mental health issues without leaving the state.
“It’s really been a missing link for a number of years where we’ve unfortunately been required to send our veterans out of state to seek this type of treatment at other VA facilities. We’re now going to be able to provide it on the Togus campus,” said Timothy McIntire, VA Maine’s Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program Manager.
Enhanced Care Close to Home
Veterans will stay at the facility for about 4-6 weeks, engaging in both group and individual psychotherapy while having access to medications in a controlled setting. McIntire emphasized the significance of offering residential treatment within Maine, allowing veterans to remain close to their support systems.
“The ability to provide that in the state of Maine close to their natural supports where friends and family can actually visit them during treatment is a big step forward,” he added.
Plans for Expansion Amid Staffing Concerns
Although the facility will initially offer 12 beds, there are plans to expand its capacity in the future. “This has been a long time coming,” McIntire said, highlighting the need for additional resources. “We are trying to get approval to add an additional 12 beds, making for a total of 24.”
However, the VA’s chronic staffing issues could pose a significant hurdle. Currently, Togus’ Substance Use Disorder (SUD) division is understaffed, and the goal is to hire a full team before the facility opens.
Legislative Efforts and Community Support
U.S. Representative Jared Golden has been a staunch advocate for expanding healthcare services for veterans. Since his election to the Maine House of Representatives in 2014, Golden has focused on increasing mental health and substance use treatment options for veterans in the state.
“It’s sorely needed and a long time coming. There is nothing I have worked for longer during my time in elected office than increasing mental health and substance use treatment for Maine veterans,” Rep. Golden wrote in a recent newsletter.
Groundbreaking and Future Projections
The groundbreaking ceremony for the new facility is set for this week, with construction expected to be completed by 2025. This development is seen as a critical step in addressing the mental health and substance use disorder needs of Maine’s veterans, though the VA’s ability to manage the facility effectively remains under scrutiny.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is the new Togus VA facility significant for Maine veterans?
The facility provides in-state residential treatment for substance use disorder and mental health issues, eliminating the need for veterans to seek care out of state.
How long will veterans stay at the new treatment facility?
Veterans will stay at the facility for about 4-6 weeks, receiving intensive group and individual psychotherapy and medication management.
What are the current staffing challenges faced by the Togus VA facility?
The SUD division at Togus is currently understaffed, and the VA is working to hire a full team before the facility opens.
What future expansions are planned for the new Togus VA facility?
There are plans to increase the number of beds from 12 to 24, pending approval.
When is the new facility expected to be completed?
The construction of the new facility is expected to be completed by 2025.
