Antioch Expands Opioid Treatment Access | California News

0:00Anti-Akk is stepping up his game to help folks battling opioid addiction. They've teamed up with BAART programs, which offers medication-assisted treatment to expand their services. This means more people can get help, even on the weekends, starting September 12. They're adding Saturday and Sunday hours from 7 a.m. to 3.30 p.m., making it easier for those who can't make it during the typical work week. This expansion is funded by money from that big settlement, with pharmaceutical companies over the opioid crisis. Anti-Akk is using his share to make sure people who are uninsured or underinsured can get treatment without breaking the bank. They're also providing patient navigation to help folks understand their options and get connected to the care they need. The goal here is to build a stronger support system. The city's community response team, which handles crises and de-escalation, often encounters individuals struggling with substance abuse. Now, they can directly connect those individuals with BAART for immediate treatment, creating a smoother path to recovery.

1:05Beyond just treatment, this partnership is also addressing security concerns at the BAART facility. The extra funding will help cover additional security personnel, which is crucial given the population served often intersects with homelessness and addiction challenges. This should lead to fewer issues and a safer environment for everyone involved. So, it's a multi-pronged approach, expanding access, providing financial aid, improving referrals, and enhancing safety. This collaboration shows a commitment to tackling the opioid epidemic head-on by offering comprehensive support and resources to those in need. That wraps California News Today, brought to you with AI. I'm Cory with the story.