WV Living Healthy 2019

healthy

2019

FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF WV LIVING MAGAZINE

NEW YOU DIABETES

how do we weigh in?

✚

RURAL HEALTH

doctors in the field

✚

how are we tackling the

OPIOID EPIDEMIC?

✚ SCALING

DOWN

STATEWIDE

ADDICTION RECOVERY

RESOURCE GUIDE

healthy FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF WV LIVING MAGAZINE

22

3 Editor’s Letter 3 Contributors 5 Healthy Matters

9 Killing Painkillers

6 Divide and Conquer

10 Battle of the Bulge

6 Jan Can

14 A Collaborative Approach to Diabetes Care

Ten Tips to Trim & Slim

As the drug epidemic has raged on, these inspiring West Virginians noticed specific needs in their communities and came up with creative ways to tackle those challenges West Virginia’s first female fire chief is saving lives with her compassionate approach to dealing with addicts.

7 A Shocking Development An electrical device helps fend off symptoms of opioid withdrawals—a crucial step toward beating addiction.

7 Safe at Home

A new Marshall University initiative provides housing for addicted women and their children.

8 Active Duty

A nonprofit is changing lives by getting West Virginians moving.

Advantage Health & Wellness helps patients find and fix the causes of their pain, without the use of addictive substances.

West Virginia is in the midst of a health crisis. How do we solve it? One bite at a time. Here’s how some of our fellow West Virginians are losing weight and living a more healthy lifestyle.

9

8

14

The Chertow Diabetes Center helps patients take treatment into their own hands.

10

16 The Local Difference

Strong community hospitals protect choice and access to care.

19 Small School, Big Impact

The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine’s graduates and programs are making a difference in small communities throughout the state.

22 Connecting Members to Care in West Virginia

The Health Plan goes the extra mile in helping members manage chronic conditions.

25 The West Virginia Model

Cover photo by Mitchell Budwig

WVU Medicine is addressing the opioid epidemic through innovative treatment and prevention methods.

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25

wvliving.com 1

STEPPING UP

CONTRIBUTORS

welcome to our first edition of WV Living Healthy. In this publication, we look at three major health-related issues facing our state—obesity and diabetes, the opioid epidemic, and access to healthcare—and showcase who is stepping up to solve the problem with innovative solutions.

While working on this issue, one thing struck me. We can’t address any of these issues without better access to health care. Whether that means physical proximity to health care, a problem for our rural communities, or access to health insurance, this is paramount to turning our terrible statistics around. Did you know that the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine is the leading provider of rural primary care doctors in the country? This school is making a difference where it matters This is my baby, who is about to most. You can learn more about the school on page 19. And the state’s only graduate. She West Virginia-based and nonprofit managed care organization, The Health has inspired me Plan, is focused on creating an innovative quality of care model for the state. to lose my “ baby Read about how they are improving health care on page 22. weight.”

You can’t talk about health care without talking about the issue of obesity and weight loss. So many of our ailments and diseases are linked to excess weight. If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, the Chertow Diabetes Center in Huntington is leading the charge on a collaborative approach to the disease. Read about the center on page 14. Weight loss issues are something that just about every one of us battles. Last October, I said to a friend, “I still haven’t lost my baby weight.” And then I realized, my “baby” was about to graduate from high school. It stopped me in my tracks. How did I get to this point? I vowed that I would lose my baby weight before my baby graduated.

A friend of mine introduced me to Ideal Protein. She had great success on the program, so I thought I’d give it a try. I met with Kristen Cooley, medical spa consultant at Tuscan Spa & Salon.

I needed something that was easy for me to do on the go, something I didn’t have to think too hard about, no numbers to crunch or track, and someone to hold me accountable. It has changed the way I interact with and react to food. I’ve given up starchy carbs and replaced them with lean protein and vegetables, plus a couple of Ideal Protein chocolate shakes or bars a day. I like that it sets me up for sustainability. Since October, I’ve lost 35 pounds. I still have 15 to go—and May is quickly approaching. I know I’m not alone in this battle of the bulge, so we decided to reach out to experts and our readers to find out what solutions they’ve found (page 10). But remember, no matter what changes you make to your eating patterns, you have to find your own individual path to a healthier lifestyle—and be in it for the long haul. Your life depends on it.

West Virginia is also in the grips of another devastating health crisis—the opioid epidemic. Addiction and its consequences are gutting our state—and no one is immune to the catastrophic effects. But the good news is that we are doing some really innovative things about it. Just look at the BRIDGE device that St. Francis Hospital is using to mitigate withdrawal symptoms (page 7), or what WVU Medicine is doing to turn the tide (page 25).

WVU Medicine’s COAT program has been transformative and is even being modeled nationally.

WVSOM has created a great publication that helps address the negative stigma associated with opioid use. Check out their Prescription Opioid and Heroin Awareness Toolkit at https://bit. ly/2zrqorl. If you or a loved one need help, support, or guidance on where to turn, please utilize the Statewide Addiction Resource Guide, sponsored by Marshall Health and Thomas Health, on page 28, or visit help4wv.com and search their online database.

Let’s each do our part by stepping up and embracing a healthier lifestyle!

To your health,

NIKKI BOWMAN, Editor nikki@newsouthmediainc.com

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WV Living Healthy is published by New South Media, Inc. Reproduction in part or whole is strictly prohibited without the express written permission of the publisher. © New South Media, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

ALEX PANAS-MOORE is a communication professional and West Virginia enthusiast. She currently works as a marketing coordinator at The Health Plan, where she helps streamline messaging and plan events for internal and external audiences. She was recently appointed president of OVConnect, a networking group for young professionals in the Greater Ohio Valley region. Alex holds a Bachelor of Arts in Health Communication from Ohio University as well as a Master of Arts in Communication Studies from Ball State University.

JEFF COWART is an awardwinning former newspaper journalist who writes frequently on health care topics. He consults with corporate and political clients on message development, market positioning, business development, governmental and public affairs, marketing and communications, and compelling storytelling and provides writing and editing services.

ANGELA JONES-KNOPF is the media relations manager at WVU Medicine in Morgantown. She is a two-time graduate of West Virginia University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in corporate and organizational communication. A native of Weirton, she currently resides in Fairmont with her husband, Kevin.

SHAWN JORDAN is the media relations and production manager at Cabell Huntington Hospital. She has spent more than 25 years in the health care industry, previously serving in communications at the Scioto County Board of Developmental Disabilities and the Southern Ohio Medical Center. She resides in Proctorville, Ohio, and has three children.

TIFFANY WRIGHT is the editorial manager in the marketing and communications department at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Marshall University and a master’s degree in integrated marketing communications from West Virginia University. wvliving.com 3

health matters

Ten Tips to Trim & Slim No matter what path you choose to follow for weight loss, there are a handful of time-tested truths to help you on our journey.

Skip sugar.

The white stuff is evil.

Walk the walk.

Exercise doesn’t have to be burdensome. Walking 10,000 steps a day has been proven to rev up your metabolism.

Cook at home.

Preparing food at home is much healthier than take out and fast food.

No wine-ing.

Don’t drink your calories.

Stay hydrated.

Drink lots of water and then some.

Cutback on refined carbs.

Say goodbye to white bread, pizza, pasta, white rice, and cereals.

Create a support network.

We all do better when we surround ourselves with others who help cheer us on.

Sideline stress.

Stress raises your cortisol levels, which stimulates your appetite. Implement coping mechanisms.

KATIE BISHOP

If you buy it, you’ll eat.

Don’t bring the donuts or potato chips home. Common sense, right?

Monitor your weight.

Stay on top of the scales.

Weight can creep on when you aren’t looking. So whether you weigh yourself weekly or monthly, keep a scale handy.

wvliving.com 5

Jan Can

Divide and Conquer

As the drug epidemic has raged on, these inspiring West Virginians noticed specific needs in their communities and came up with creative ways to tackle those challenges.

Lily’s Place

Jacob’s Ladder

Hope Dealers

After seeing the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Cabell Huntington Hospital fill up with infants affected by their mothers’ opioid abuse, nurses Rhonda Edmunds and Sara Murray decided these special little patients needed a place of their own.

They opened Lily’s Place, a 12-bed recovery center dedicated to drugaffected infants, in October 2014.

Babies receive private rooms where they are closely monitored as the drugs are weaned from their systems.

Patients typically stay three to six weeks, but Lily’s Place also holds follow-up clinics to continue monitoring patients throughout childhood.

Lily’s Place now offers replication packages to help others start their own infant recovery centers. “We don’t want people to have to reinvent the wheel,” Edmunds says. “We just want to help them however we can.” 304.523.5459, lilysplace.org, @lilysplacewv on Facebook

Kevin Blankenship was the co-founder of the enormously successful urgent care chain MedExpress, where he served as chief operating officer until 2009. But, as it has many West Virginians, the opioid epidemic touched his life. His brother-in-law died from alcohol and opiate abuse, and his son has struggled with addiction.

Blankenship wanted to do something so, after more than a year of research, he opened Jacob’s Ladder in April 2016.

The six-month program—featured in the Netflix documentary Recovery Boys— offers recovery services alongside farm chores to help addicts learn long-term thinking. “Plant something today, reap the benefits in a couple months. If we can combine that type of thinking with the appropriate amount of time away from their other activities, we can make a difference,” Blankenship says.

304.239.1214, jacobsladderbrookside. com, @jacobsladderbrookside on Facebook

Tara Mason, Lisa Melcher, and Tina Stride met in a support group for families affected by addiction. As they helped one another through their pain, the women came up with an idea.

“We’ve got to be the new dealers,” Melcher said. “The dealers of hope.”

The Hope Dealer Project was born.

When addicts or their families contact the group—whether by phone, Facebook message, or word of mouth—the women spring into action to find the treatment program best suited to the client’s addiction and personal needs.

Once they’ve located an open spot, one of the women transports the client in her personal vehicle, often driving through the night. “We’re not doing this for praise. We’re doing this to get the addicts into recovery,” Stride says.

1.844.383.HOPE, hopedealerproject.org, @thehopedealerproject on Facebook

The incidence of opioid deaths in West Virginia increased by more than

24x

from 1999 to 2016.

Based on data from NIH West Virginia Opioid Summary

6 wv living healthy • spring 2019

2,080,000 opioid prescriptions written in WV in 2013. That’s 110 prescriptions for every 100 people.

Long before the opioid crisis became national news, Jan Rader could see what was coming. The RN-turnedfirefighter watched as her adopted hometown of Huntington became the “overdose capital of America.”

She saw people reusing needles, rapidly spreading blood-borne disease. So, in 2014, she helped found the Cabell-Huntington Health Department’s Harm Reduction Program—a syringe exchange and safe space for those suffering from addiction that helps get them into long-term treatment.

She continued this compassionate approach after becoming chief of the Huntington Fire Department in 2017. In the Oscarnominated, Emmy-winning Netflix documentary Heroin(e), Rader is shown personally delivering the opioid antidote Naloxone to fire departments. “I don’t care if I have to save somebody 50 times," Rader says in the film. “That’s 50 chances to get into long-term recovery.”

Thanks in part to her efforts, Huntington’s overdose rate is down 40 percent since 2014, and the city’s overdose death rates have decreased by half. Rader has been featured on CBS News, National Public Radio, Vice News, and other news outlets, and in 2018 was named to TIME Magazine’s Top 100 Most Influential People.

As of this writing, her 2018 TED Talk about the opioid crisis has been viewed more than a million times. “This epidemic is far from over,” she tells the audience near the end of the 15-minute speech. “But each and every one of us has a part to play in this epidemic.

Just by listening and being kind to somebody, you have the ability to make a difference in their lives.”

NIKKI BOWMAN

West Virginia’s first female fire chief is saving lives with her compassionate approach to dealing with addicts.

A Shocking Development

COURTESY OF INNOVATIVE HEALTH SOLUTIONS

An electrical device helps fend off symptoms of opioid withdrawals—a crucial step toward beating addiction. it doesn’t take long for a person suffering opioid addiction to begin feeling the effects of withdrawal. Symptoms—which can include abdominal pain, anxiety, depression, diarrhea, muscle cramps, nausea, and vomiting—begin just hours after the last dose. When symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea are severe enough, people can even die from withdrawals.

This is one reason opioid addictions are so difficult to defeat. People suffering from addiction will do anything to avoid the onset of these symptoms, which are often compared to a severe case of the flu. But now, treatment professionals have found a promising new way to curb symptoms of opioid withdrawals—without the use of opioid replacement drugs.

Enter the NSS-2 BRIDGE, a device that sends electrical pulses to select groups of nerves to prevent the brain from feeling the pains of opioid withdrawal. It’s being tested across the United States, including at The Addiction Healing Center at St. Francis Hospital in Charleston.

St. Francis is the first place in West Virginia to use the BRIDGE device on recovering addicts.

“We were skeptical,” says Joe Deegan, a licensed clinical social worker at St. Francis.

But then a patient came in who was in the throes of extreme withdrawal symptoms. “She was really sick. She was like, ‘I’ll try anything,’” Deegan says. The hospital fitted her with the battery-powered device, which looks similar to a cochlear implant. They attached it behind her ear using double-sided tape, then placed three electrodes—which are actually arrays of tiny needles—in and around her ear. The placement is important, as it aims the electrical impulses at particular branches of nerves.

The results were almost immediate. Within an hour, the patient’s symptoms were drastically

Safe at Home A new Marshall University initiative provides housing for addicted women and their children.

reduced. Instead of being sick for days, as most patients are when going through withdrawal, she was able to begin therapy to overcome her addictions that same day. Deegan says the patient even began touting the BRIDGE device’s effectiveness to other patients. The hospital has now used the device with about 20 patients. “The device works dramatically every time. We haven’t seen it not work for anybody,” he says.

The battery in the device can run for up to five days, at which point many people suffering from addiction should be past the worst period of withdrawal symptoms. BRIDGE devices can also be used in conjunction with other treatment solutions.

When the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the device for clinical use in November 2017, FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb stressed the importance of finding new, innovative ways to treat addiction. “While we continue to pursue better medicines for the treatment of opioid use disorder, we also need to look to devices that can assist in this therapy,” he said in a press release.

While Deegan admits the BRIDGE device only tackles one aspect of addiction recovery, it is a step in the right direction. “It’s another tool in the toolbox.”

20.8 million

pain pills shipped to two pharmacies in Williamson, WV, from 2006 to 2016.

“Who will take care of my child?” It’s a common—and understandable—worry for mothers looking to overcome their addictions through inpatient treatment. But Marshall University’s Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine wants to relieve those concerns through its new Project Hope for Women and Children facility.

The new 15,000-square-foot space—built in partnership with the Huntington City Mission—was officially opened in December 2018. It provides 18 apartments where women can both take care of their children and seek help for their substance abuse issues.

In addition to safe, stable housing, each resident receives a personalized treatment plan that includes individual and family counseling, job training, life skills coaching, and medication-assisted therapy.

Funding for the project came from Cabell Huntington Hospital, Marshall University, St. Mary’s Medical Center, The Health Plan, the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, among others.

7,172:1 pills to people over that decade.

Based on a Charleston Gazette-Mail investigation

wvliving.com 7

Active Duty

A nonprofit is changing lives by getting West Virginians moving.

When a business is considering moving into an area, after asking about infrasture, the next question is always the same—what is the workforce like?

That’s why, in 2014, the New River Gorge Development Authority spun off a new nonprofit called Active Southern West Virginia (ASWV) to encourage physical exercise throughout the region. The group is tackling the area’s well-documented health problem to create a stronger, healthier, more capable workforce and giving residents a better quality of life.

ASWV’s work is broken into five program areas:

➺

Community Captains The heart and soul of the organization is its team of 50 individuals who lead regular physical activity programs in their communities. Activities include water aerobics, yoga, tai chi, biking, running, hiking, pickleball, and more. In 2018, captains offered more than 900 programs throughout southern West Virginia with more than 8,500 people participating. It’s led to some inspiring success stories. After only six weeks in a tai chi class, one woman with mobility issues had built up enough strength to complete her grocery shopping without the aid of an electric cart.

Kids Run Club This program recruits volunteer coaches to organize run clubs at elementary schools. Nearly half of the elementary schools in ASWV’s four-county coverage area now have run clubs, with 190 volunteer coaches and 1,600 student participants. Running teaches students confidence and reinforces healthy habits. Teachers have reported that students who participate in the clubs have better behavior in the classroom and, as a result, better grades.

Bike/Walk SWV We can’t expect people to get out and get healthy if there are no safe spaces for them to do so. That’s where Bike/Walk SWV comes in. This initiative encourages local governments to establish policies and invest in infrastructure that allows for active, healthy communities.

The program’s first big project is in Mount Hope, where leaders have adopted a fitness-friendly approach to development, designated a one-mile fitness trail, and are working to develop a rails-trail.

Signature Events While everything else ASWV does is free, the group holds special events throughout the year to raise money and awareness for the organization. In May, ASWV will hold a fun run at Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley for members of its school run clubs. In June, the organization has organized a family triathlon at Summersville Lake and, in September, there will be a stand-up paddleboard race.

In October, ASWV will again hold its annual Bridge Day 5K Run to coincide with Fayetteville’s world-famous BASEjumping festival and, in December, the group will host an Ugly Sweater Walk/Run to celebrate the opening of Fayette County Park’s annual “Winter Wonderland” light show. For more information, visit activeswv.org/events.

8 wvl • spring 2019

COURTESY OF ACTIVE SOUTHERN WEST VIRGINIA

Workplace Wellness ASWV’s newest program is aimed at getting businesses to adopt health programs as part of the workday. The group is working with companies to change their policies and office environments to encourage employees to make healthy choices and also helping them provide a menu of activities to choose from.

Killing Painkillers COURTESY OF ADVANTAGE HEALTH & WELLNESS

Advantage Health & Wellness helps patients find and fix the causes of their pain, without the use of addictive substances. written by

zack harold

B

efore there was an epidemic, before

the overdose deaths, before the heroin, before the pill mills and faked prescriptions, there were people suffering from pain. These people went to their doctors for help, where they were prescribed highly addictive narcotics that were supposed to take the pain away.

Of all the awful consequences this approach

to pain management has wrought, here’s perhaps the worst of all: the drugs didn’t even work.

“Americans report no change in pain—it’s not helping. After 30 years of killing people and ruining families, it hasn’t helped,” says chiropractic physician Kevin Trembush. “It’s not fixing your pain.”

Painkillers only mask the pain—they don’t address the causes of the pain.

That’s why Trembush established Advantage Health & Wellness, a multidisciplinary practice in Morgantown that brings chiropractors, massage therapists, physical therapists, nurse practitioners, and doctors together to assess patients’ pain, figure out what is causing it, and determine how best to manage it without resorting to surgery or opioid medications.

“We get as good or better results with pain management as these drugs will. Most of the time, they’re getting the result they came in for.”

Patients begin with an evaluation, which can involve a chiropractor, a physical therapist, x-rays, MRIs, and orthopedic testing. From this, Trembush’s team puts together a program to manage the pain. This might involve injection therapy, where medicine is injected into a specific pain generator. It might involve lifestyle

changes. “That’s very specific to each person, what are you doing to facilitate this pain? How do we avoid this from happening?” Trembush says. “This is very personalized care.”

Weight loss can be an important part of pain management, too. “I’ve found that if somebody just loses a quarter of their over-weight, it makes a tremendous difference in the reporting of knee pain, back pain, and pain in general,” he says.

Trembush acknowledges that his practice’s opioid-free approach to pain management is not right for all patients. "If you’re having chronic pain from cancer or cancer treatment, I am not the person to come to. If you’re having pain from a true psychological pain generator, I’m not the person you come to. If it’s tooth pain, I’m not the guy to come to,” he says.

But Trembush says almost everyone else can find relief from their pain without resorting to surgery or using addictive opioids. Even if the first plan of action doesn’t isn’t successful, the team at Advantage Health & Wellness will keep searching.

“Until patients get tired of trying, we’re going to continue to try,” Trembush says.

wvliving.com 9

Battle of the Bulge

West Virginia is in the midst of a health crisis. How do we solve it? One bite at a time. Here’s how some of our fellow West Virginians are losing weight and living a more healthy lifestyle. t’s no secret. We are fat. West Virginia has the highest adult obesity rate in the nation, and it just keeps climbing. According to Better Policies for a Healthier America, West Virginia’s adult obesity rate was 23.9 percent in 2000. Today that percentage has climbed to 38.1 percent.

We know we need to lose weight, get in shape, and live a healthy lifestyle because, as a nation, we spend $66 billion a year supporting the ever-growing weight loss industry. There’s never been more resources for weight loss—we have apps, books galore, support groups—and yet, the numbers keep climbing.

Excess weight can have devastating consequences. Dr. Lawrence Tabone, Director of Metabolic and Weight Loss Surgery WVU Medicine, explains that it is a complex issue.

“Excess weight has a significant impact on one’s health and is much more complicated than just diet alone. It is a serious multifaceted metabolic disorder. Obesity is a medical illness.

We know that we have identified 45 genes that put you at risk for obesity.” Having a body mass index above 40 puts people at high risk for disease. “We know that someone with a BMI above 40 reduces life span by five to 20 years,” says Tabone.

“People with excess weight are at high risk for diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure—which are leading causes of heart disease—polycystic ovary syndrome, joint issues, sleep apnea, and cancer. We know that people with a BMI over 40 are two to three times more likely to develop breast or colon cancer, and they are eight times more likely to develop esophageal cancer and 10 times more likely to have endometrial cancer.”

But losing weight is hard. Very hard. We’ve all tried—we lose it, gain it, lose it, and gain it again. It feels like a constant battle. And there’s always a new trendy diet to follow.

10 wv living healthy • spring 2019

bowman

With all of the solutions available, the options seem to be endless. Research has shown what works for one person may not work for another—yet almost every diet claims that their research proves their solution is best.

Tabone is not a fan of commercial diets. He believes that some of the more drastic ones are not sustainable and cause more long-term damage. “When we lose and gain, lose and gain, we cause damage to our metabolism. We need to focus on improving diet with quality food in a sustainable way.”

Tabone acknowledges that the rise of the outside weight loss industry has filled a void because the medical community wasn’t treating excess weight as a medical condition. “We traditionally believed that excess calories caused you to gain weight, but we now know it is much more complicated. That’s not to discount the importance of exercise and a healthy diet,” Tabone says. “We now know that hormones are at play and that regulates metabolism. Even when you lose weight, you still have an underlying metabolic disorder. It is a chronic illness. Like other illnesses, it requires a lifelong treatment plan. We encourage people not to turn to commercial services, but instead seek medical advice. There are so many different components that play into weight management— behavioral, psychological, counseling, medication evaluation, dietary changes, exercise, and for some surgical options—that need to be investigated. I encourage everyone to seek advice from a primary care physician before turning to a commercial diet program.”

After talking with doctors, weight loss specialists, and our readers, we are highlighting a few programs that have come most highly recommended, but please talk it over with your doctor first before launching into a radical lifestyle change.

CHARLES DELUVIO

I

written by nikki

✓ Greatly reduces sugar and sweeteners ✓ 4 cups of select vegetables daily ✓ 3 Ideal Protein foods

Forks Over Knives is a must-watch documentary.

The major storyline traces the personal journeys of Dr. T. Colin Campbell, a nutritional biochemist from Cornell University, and Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, a former top surgeon at Cleveland Clinic. They conclude that chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes can be prevented and reversed by eliminating animal-based and processed foods. Since 2011, Forks Over Knives has spawned several books, a mobile recipe app, and a website with recipes and other meal planning tools. forksoverknives.com

✓ Online tools and ongoing support to maximize your success

✓ Lifestyle education, coaching, and guidance to help sustain your Ideal Weight

COST $400 initial fee $75-$120 a week for food and vitamins

Protein totally changed my life, and “nowIdeal I’m helping others as a coach change their lives too! I like that it’s scientific—it’s all about hormones and metabolism. It’s low fat, low carb, and moderate protein. There is coaching support and a transitional phase the first year after weight loss, with a maintenance plan also. Many programs either don’t have a maintenance plan or don’t emphasize that one is necessary, but it’s essential to keep the weight off. I have dieters who have lost over 100 pounds and maintained for nine to 12 months so far. The ones who follow the advice of maintenance are able to keep their weight off, or at least within 5 percent of their goal. Improved health outcomes for the long haul is what it’s all about.”

HIGHLIGHTS ✓ Eat whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes ✓ No counting calories or portion control ✓ Minimize dairy, meat, poultry, and seafood ✓ No refined sugars

“

Forks Over Knives documentary and the accompanying recipe app have changed the way I eat. It’s not some ‘program’ that you have to buy. It uses actual data sets to prove the health benefits of a whole food plant-based way of eating. It sets the tone for actually changing the way you think about food as opposed to selling some diet program to only lose weight. Now that I follow the FOK basics, my cholesterol levels are within normal range. When I make food choices now, it's not about ‘dieting.’ It is all about asking, ‘Is what I am about to eat truly healthy for me?’”

- CHRIS NICHOLS

Laurie Jones, lost 50 pounds, Ideal Protein diet

- LAURIE JONES, APRN, BC-FNP, Certified Ideal

Protein coach and clinic coordinator at Ideal Image Weight Loss offered at Thrush and Clark Allergists

COST App $4.99 Meal Planner Subscription $19.99 a month

The Ideal Protein Ketogenic Weight Loss Protocol is a medically developed four-phase system that focuses on weight loss by eating select vegetables, lean protein, and a combination of Ideal Protein food products. An important aspect of the program is healthier lifestyle education to sustain weight loss and one-on-one coaching. idealprotein.com HIGHLIGHTS ✓ 4 phases that include weight loss, education, proper reintroduction of foods, and maintenance

✓ 8 ounces of protein daily

Keto seems to be the buzzword these days, and given the response to our inquiry to readers on what diet has worked best for them, it was neck and neck with Weight Watchers. The premise of this diet is to eat protein and fat while severely limiting carbs, and by doing so force your body to use more fats for fuel instead of using carbs.

People on very low-carb diets reach a state called ketosis. Numerous people claim that low-carb Keto diet is extremely helpful for weight loss, but health professionals often state that it is not a healthy way to lose weight or maintain weight loss. However, studies have shown that low-carb diets help lower blood triglycerides, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, insulin levels, and blood pressure. One thing is for sure, low-carb diets are not for everyone. Some people may experience an increase in “bad” LDL cholesterol, and in rare cases, very low-carb diets can cause a serious condition called ketoacidosis.

Stacey Jeffries, lost 75 pounds, Keto Diet

Dean Jeffries, lost 80 pounds, Keto Diet wvliving.com 11

Angela Johnson, lost 95 pounds, Keto Diet

Chad Freeman, lost 110 pounds, Mediterranean Diet

Leslie Gallian, lost 66 pounds, Ideal Protein

HIGHLIGHTS ✓ Low carb and high fat diet ✓ Eat cheese, eggs, meat, fish, and low carb vegetables

✓ Avoid sugar, grains, fruits, legumes, root vegetables, sugar-free diet foods

✓ No alcohol

“

I have been eating ketogenic for four years now. I was DX borderline Type II Diabetic, due to being obese, and I was making poor food choices. At one point in my career I was a dialysis nurse, and most of my patients’ renal failure was directly and indirectly related to diabetes, so I knew I had to change my lifestyle. I began researching weight loss solutions, and ketogenic made sense to me. I made a lifestyle change, and now four years later I am down 75 pounds, but most importantly I am healthy! All my blood work is good, and I feel wonderful. No Type II Diabetes, no longer suffer from plantar fasciitis, dry eyes, back pain, fatigue, or bloating. Feeling good in my skin is only an added bonus.”- Stacey Jeffries, lost 75 pounds, and husband Dean Jeffries, lost 80 pounds

lost 102 pounds on Keto in six months, “andI’veI haven't looked back. Keto has helped me

enjoy life more by being healthier and more mobile. I can perform at a higher level without feeling sluggish and gasping for air. Playing with my children easier and living a healthier lifestyle is what is important. Keto is a lifestyle change, not a diet.” - Larry Flowers, lost 102 pounds

of Keto, I have altered my diet. I eat “20 Because or less net carbs a day, intermittent fasting 12 wv living healthy • spring 2019

everyday, drink my weight in ounces of water everyday, and eat little to no sugar or processed foods! I’ve been on it since April of 2018, and I’ve lost 95 pounds! I have energy like never before, sleep better, my whole body (muscles, joints, skin, hair, nails) feels better! My mood is better. No more brain fog! No more bloating or feeling swollen. I have cheated on my diet, and when I have, it’s always been miserable afterwards. I feel like a whale. You can instantly feel the bloating and headache. For me this is a lifestyle change. I’ll never go back. It’s worked for me when everything else has failed. It’s simple and has become second nature for me. I’m eating healthy natural foods, and my children watch and learn from what goes in my mouth every single day!” - Angela Johnson, lost 95 pounds

✓ Use olive oil instead of butter and margarine ✓ Use herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor foods

✓ Limit red meat to no more than a few times a month

✓ Eat fish and poultry ✓ Drink red wine in moderation ✓ Get plenty of exercise

I’ve been on a strict Mediterranean diet for “a year, from my birthday to my birthday, and I’ve lost 110 pounds. I eat a lot of watermelon, eggs, nuts, lemon water, cayenne pepper, meat, fruits, and all the veggies one can handle.” - Chad Freeman, lost 110 pounds

There’s a reason why Weight Watchers has long been heralded as one of the most successful weight loss programs. It has churned out many success stories. Weight Watchers recently rebranded itself to WW with the tagline Wellness that Works.

The program is based on SmartPoints—points assigned to foods based on calories, saturated fat, protein, and sugar—which you add up to HIGHLIGHTS reach your daily allotment. Wellness Workshops, ✓ Eat primarily plant-based foods, such as fruits formerly known as meetings, and a savvy and easy and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, to use app have made it easier than ever to stay and nuts motivated. weightwatchers.com This diet is a favorite among doctors and nutritionists because it is the most sustainable. The Mediterranean diet includes fruits, vegetables, pasta, and rice, and research has shown that it reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, as well as help shed unwanted pounds.

Surgical Solutions

Making sure your weight is within “reasonable range is vital to your health. Your healthy blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and no-longer-aching joints will thank you. In WW, we set a goal of losing your first 10 percent, which improves said issues. I was a WW leader, and the program has become ingrained.

I’ve tried every diet under the sun and always go back to WW. It’s doable for my lifestyle and helps you make good choices. One of my favorite tools of the program is emotional rehearsal. I’ve used this many times for special events that can trigger overeating. Family reunion? Buffet line?

Wedding reception? Envision yourself there, socializing, feeling good in your skin (and maybe your new dress, a reward for your new figure— even a few pounds off makes such a difference) and focusing on the people, the music, and the memories instead of the food. It always helps to set your goals early. And finally, dieting well, or I should say healthy living, should be a mindset first. That’s always the hardest part for me, getting re-started!”- Sarah Blizzard Robinson, lost 30 pounds I’ve been on more diets than I can “remember.

The only one that works is Weight Watchers because it is NOT a diet. It is truly a lifestyle change. I’ve lost 53 pounds and I’m 75 years old. Keeping it off takes an attitude adjustment. Grateful I’ve finally learned that.”

- Mary Carol Nettles, lost 53 pounds

COST With purchase of subscription plan Digital —$3.07 a week Studio —$6.92 a week Coaching—$12.69 a week

FANCYCRAVE

BY THE

NUMBERS

If you have digestive issues, Whole30, created

by Melissa Hartwig, is a popular choice. For 30 days you completely eliminate foods that are known to be inflammatory or craving-inducing, such as sugar, dairy, artificial sweeteners, alcohol, and grains. You mostly eat veggies and protein, and then slowly introduce them back into your diet. The premise is that it is life-changing—and anyone can do anything for 30 days, right? Start by reading Hartwig’s book Whole30. whole30.com HIGHLIGHTS ✓ Eat real, unprocessed foods ✓ No grain products, alcohol, sugar or artificial sugar, or dairy

✓ Don’t step on the scale for 30 days

Whole30 was a great way as a “coreThelifestyle change to reset and reduce inflammation issues for those that battle food allergies—gluten, dairy, etc. It was most helpful to jump-start my self-health focus and the most successful focus I’ve had. I lost 50-plus pounds and, paired with a great trainer at the time, it created a much greater quality of health. It’s not always fun, as you give up dairy, all grains, sugars, legumes, and alcoholic beverages. The transition is a challenge but improves over time.

Since then, I have gotten back on it, which is helping me stay focused. This program is helpful, but afterward transitioning can be challenging.

It is great for people with autoimmune or inflammation matters.”- Paul Daugherty, lost 50+ pounds

Diet and exercise are the best ways to lose weight, but some people struggling with severe obesity might need extra help.

“For many people with excess weight exceeding 100 pounds above their ideal body weight, diet and exercise alone do not adequately treat or prevent weight-related illnesses. For those individuals, surgery, in combination with changes in diet, increased activity, and lifestyle changes, has been proven in multiple medical studies to be the most effective treatment,” says Dr. Lawrence Tabone, director of metabolic and weight loss surgery at WVU Medicine.

Weight loss surgery can take several forms, but each procedure has the same goal— to reduce caloric intake by reducing the size of the stomach.

Sometimes this involves placing a band around the stomach, while other times surgeons remove a portion of the stomach.

Still other procedures create a small pouch within the stomach and bypass sections of the small intestine, reducing caloric and nutrient absorption.

WVU Medicine offers the largest multidisciplinary weight management program in the state of West Virginia. If you are interested in bariatric surgery, call 304.293.1728 or visit wvumedicine.org/bariatrics.

38.1% 15.2% 43.5% #1

Percentage of WV adults who are obese.

Percentage of adults with diabetes

Percentage of adults with hypertension

Where WV ranks in adult obesity, diabetes, and hypertension rates.

Data from “The State of Obesity,” a 2018 report from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

wvliving.com 13

A Collaborative Approach to Diabetes Care The Chertow Diabetes Center helps patients take treatment into their own hands. written by shawn

14 wv living healthy • spring 2019

k. jordan

COURTESY OF CABELL HUNTINGTON HOSPITAL, MEDTRONIC

T

he fundamental reality of diabetes is that daily care is in the hands of the patient. That is why the Chertow Diabetes Center, located just a block from Cabell Huntington Hospital at the Byrd Clinical Center, uses a patient-centered approach in every aspect of care. With the largest group of board-certified endocrinologists in West Virginia and a committed team of patient educators and other specialty personnel, the Chertow Diabetes Center is a testament to years of teamwork among Cabell Huntington Hospital, Marshall University, and the Tri-State community.

The center is named for Dr. Bruce Chertow, who founded the Department of Endocrinology at the Marshall School of Medicine in the 1970s and dedicated his entire medical career to diabetes treatment, emphasizing a patientcentered, collaborative approach to diabetes management.

At the Chertow Diabetes Center, patients are evaluated and treated by a team of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dietitians, educators, lab specialists, and therapists.

Medical Director Dr. Henry Driscoll says education and support are key components of the center’s mission. “Patients are at the center of the healthcare team, but this is especially true for diabetic patients,” Driscoll says. “They have to balance their diet and exercise and medication on a day-to-day basis, and we are here to support them each step of the way.”

To help individuals gain control of their diabetes and manage their daily decision-making, certified diabetes educators focus on four areas: meal planning, exercise, medication, and blood glucose monitoring.

The center offers one-on-one insulin pump training and provides education about the latest glucose monitoring technology, including The Minimed® 670G, the first insulin pump to automatically deliver a personalized amount of insulin needed by the body 24 hours a day.

Patient educators are essential to the center’s success, whether they are reviewing a diabetic patient’s diet, creating a plan to manage blood glucose, or helping a client navigate insurance and other financial decisions.

Driscoll says the center’s partnership with Cabell Huntington Hospital provides a full range of key resources important to patients with diabetes including pharmacy services, the J. Robert Pritchard Dialysis Center, the multidisciplinary Diabetes Exercise Center, the Neurophysiology Lab, Huntington’s Kitchen, and the Center for Wound Healing, a comprehensive wound center that offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy for diabetic foot wounds.

“From podiatrists to pharmacists to ophthalmologists, we have excellent resources available to us and our patients,” Driscoll says. “It is a team effort, not only within the center, but outside its walls as well.”

While individuals with diabetes may manage their own daily care, thanks to the Chertow Diabetes Center, they don’t have to do it alone. And now, patients in the Putnam County area have access close to home with diabetes self-management and education services in Teays Valley.

Diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and certified pump trainers now see patients at Marshall Health–Teays Valley, located at 300 Corporate Center Drive in Scott Depot.

For more information, call the Chertow Diabetes Center at 304.691.1660 or the Teays Valley location at 304.691.691. To learn more about diabetes visit us on the web at cabellhuntington.org. wvliving.com 15

The Local Difference

Strong community hospitals protect choice and access to care. written by jeff

cowart

16 wv living healthy • spring 2019

C

ommunity hospitals—institutions vital to providing care to patients, close to home—are losing their independence at an alarming rate. Declining cost-of-care reimbursements, unfavorable regulatory policies, and sometimes predatory practices by larger health care systems are creating new kinds of pressures on community hospitals. In one study, Morgan Stanley forecasts that as many as 450 hospitals nationwide are at risk of closure and another 600 are in “weak” financial health.

Economic conditions have forced many community hospitals to merge with larger hospital systems to survive.

And this trend is not necessarily good for the consumer.

COURTESY OF MON HEALTH SYSTEM

A More Personal Touch

In November 2018, The New York Times reported that the trend in hospital consolidation is “forming powerful organizations that influence nearly every health care decision consumers make. The hospitals have argued that consolidation benefits consumers with cheaper prices from coordinated services and other savings. But an analysis conducted for The New York Times shows the opposite to be true in many cases. The mergers have essentially banished competition and raised prices for hospital admissions in most cases.” The Times analysis was conducted by the Nicholas C. Petris Center at the University of California, Berkeley.

A separate study by the National Bureau of Economic Research, conducted by Zack Cooper of Yale University, Stuart Craig of the University of Pennsylvania, Martin Gaynor of Carnegie Mellon, and John Van Reenen of the London School of Economics,

found hospital prices are 15.3 percent higher when a hospital has no competition. “Studies like these are effectively a call to action for community hospitals,” says Mon Health System President and CEO David Goldberg. “Consumers are best served when independent community hospitals and health systems like ours—which has a tradition and history of serving patients close to home for nearly 100 years—remain independent.”

The pressures on community hospitals are real, Goldberg says. But part of the solution to remaining independent lies in stronger leadership to manage costs through strategic operational improvement plans, smart selection of primary services tailored to community needs and conditions, and cooperative and collaborative relationships with other community hospitals to better leverage purchasing and negotiating power.

Another key imperative for community hospital independence is a focus on quality of care and service.

“When you walk into one of Mon Health’s hospitals or clinics, you can feel the difference compared to large, impersonal institutions,” Goldberg says. “The physicians and staff at community hospitals are neighbors you know. At Mon Health, we don’t just practice medicine, we treat people like family.”

Also, community hospitals are typically governed by a volunteer board of directors who are from the community. “These are folks who, for the most part, were born, and grew up in the community, they are part of the fabric of the community, they have a strong vested interest in doing what is right for the community.” wvliving.com 17

That’s the type of environment where quality of care flourishes, Goldberg says.

“For example, Mon Health Medical Center and Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital are the only two hospitals in the North Central West Virginia to receive ‘A’ ratings from the Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit organization committed to driving quality, safety, and transparency in the U.S. health system,” Goldberg says. “That is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the staff that you typically see in a community hospital setting.”

Advantages of a Community Hospital ➽ Rich history and tradition of serving ➽ Easy access to care, close to home the local community ➽ High quality care at the lowest cost ➽ A high percentage of physicians and ➽ Invested in supporting its community staff are from the community ➽ Typically governed by a volunteer board of deeply rooted local citizens 18 wv living healthy • spring 2019

The continued independence of community hospitals and healthcare systems is most importantly about ensuring that a patient’s access to the highest quality of care closest to home at the lowest cost is preserved, Goldberg says.

In addition, when community hospitals create partnerships, affiliations and even mergers with each other, they tend to hold, honor, and respect the hometown values that distinguish community hospitals from their larger counterparts.

“This is the kind of relationship Mon Health achieved with Preston Memorial Hospital in Kingwood and Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital in Weston,” Goldberg says. “The values, culture and importance of a hospital in its local community should never be underestimated or taken for granted. A strong and vibrant community hospital and health system ensures that patients have choices and are not forced to rely on a single provider. Patients should always have a choice in where they want to receive their care. Relationships among community hospitals help preserve these values at the local level.”

In Goldberg’s view, community hospitals can thrive by sharply focusing on the details of adapting to change and meeting the opportunities of the future with creativity and innovation. “The key is always keeping the need for choice, easy access, high-quality care, and what is best for the patient in the forefront of the strategy and the decisions we make,” he says.

CARLA WITT FORD

Great care, close to home

Small School, Big Impact The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine’s graduates and programs are making a difference in small communities throughout the state. wright

COURTESY OF WEST VIRGINIA SCHOOL OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE

written by tiffany

wvliving.com 19

Committed to local care

The large number of WVSOM graduates practicing in West Virginia may be attributed to the school’s Statewide Campus program, the goal of which is to encourage students to remain in the Mountain State to practice.

In their third and fourth years, students are assigned to one of 22 hospitals across West Virginia that will serve as base sites for their medical education, and they receive additional training at 36 more hospitals in the state.

Dr. Christopher Donovan “Dino” Beckett is one 20 wv living healthy • spring 2019

A broader view of medical education Beyond WVSOM’s campus, the medical school also strives to serve the needs of West Virginians by assisting and working with community-based organizations. To support these community efforts, WVSOM created the Center for Rural and Community Health (CRCH) to improve the health and well-being of West Virginians and positively change the state’s health profile through research, education, and outreach opportunities.

Drema Mace, executive director of the CRCH, says having strong community partnerships ties into WVSOM’s mission of serving the health care needs of its residents. “Having successful community partnerships is important because there is more strength in numbers and by collaborating we can build an infrastructure that benefits the overall health of our communities,” she says.

The center has garnered community participatory research for students and faculty; sponsors the Greenbrier County Health Alliance, and works closely with the alliance to provide community-engaged opportunities for healthy nutrition and physical activity; and offers trainings statewide for community health worker training program. WVSOM has adopted evidence-based programs created by Stanford University

NIKKI BOWMAN

F

or a small osteopathic medical school nestled in the southern West Virginia mountains, the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM) is making a big impact on healthcare.

As of October 2018, there were a total of 796 WVSOM graduates practicing in West Virginia, some of whom were members of the school’s inaugural graduating class in 1978.

“WVSOM was founded to improve access to health care in small, rural communities throughout the state,” says President James W. Nemitz. “We’ve seen a constant increase in the number of physicians practicing in West Virginia. Our grads are in 48 out of 55 counties in the state, and that represents both primary care and nonprimary care specialties.”

example of a WVSOM graduate practicing in West Virginia. After graduating in 2000, Beckett completed his residency at Charleston Area Medical Center, after which he returned to Williamson, a small, coal-mining town in Mingo County with a population of less than 3,000 residents.

Beckett opened a family practice there and began offering a free clinic once a month to cater to patients who had little or no insurance. This led to the transition of his practice to a nonprofit federally-qualified health center called the Williamson Health and Wellness Center, which is now the parent organization of the Mingo County Diabetes Coalition and the Williamson Farmer’s Market. Patients are prescribed vegetables, encouraged to eat healthy, and have follow up care with diabetes educators and community health workers in the same location to improve health outcomes.

He has taken the principles of osteopathic medicine—treating patients’ minds, bodies, and spirits in a holistic approach—and applied it to community development. “We practice holistic community development. It’s understanding mind, body, and spirit, looking at all those facets of the community and how they are all interconnected, so we can create change and opportunities for people,” he says.

Beckett has received many awards for his work, including the National Rural Health Association’s Rural Health Practitioner of the Year in 2017 and the WVSOM Alumni of the Year in 2018. But he’s just one of many alumni who attend WVSOM, decide to practice in West Virginia after they graduate, and serve the needs of their community and state.

COURTESY OF WEST VIRGINIA SCHOOL OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE

to educate people about chronic disease self-management, chronic pain self-management, and diabetes. The school also works with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a federal funding agency for substance abuse.

Another effort by the CRCH was the creation of the “Prescription Opioid and Heroin Awareness Toolkit: A Prevention Guide,” designed to bring awareness to the rising epidemic in the state and offer resources for those trying to recover. The toolkit was developed in collaboration with the Greenbrier County Community Addressing Prescription Drug Epidemic (CARxE) Coalition.

The toolkit was presented in October 2017 at the West Virginia Rural Health Conference and, as a result, neighboring counties began expressing an interest in it. During that time, SAMHSA began using it as a model for other areas of the state — hoping to replicate the toolkit statewide.

To date, printed and electronic versions of the prevention and awareness toolkits are available in Greenbrier, Boone, and Mercer counties. Electronic versions are available for Cabell and Kanawha counties, with printed copies available soon. Toolkits in Fayette and Wyoming counties are currently in development and 10 additional counties are planned for this year.

In 2017, West Virginia led the

nation in age-adjusted drug overdose death rates with a rate of 57.8 per 100,000, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CRCH and CARxE Coalition hope the toolkit will prove to be one example of how to address this crisis while also addressing the negative stigma associated with opioid use.

The toolkit has also gained national exposure. Mace and Haylee Heinsberg, CRCH education director, presented “An Opioid Toolkit: A Rural Community Education Project” at the National Rural Health Association’s annual conference in May 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

“We are one of the major players in addressing this crisis in regards to education, prevention, and the possibility of what we can do with treatment and workforce development. WVSOM’s CRCH is doing great work in that area,” President Nemitz says.

Not just a mission, a purpose

The final sentence of WVSOM’s mission statement is one of the most important: “WVSOM is dedicated to serve, first and foremost, the state of West Virginia and the health care needs of its residents, emphasizing primary care in rural areas.”

This is more than just words—it’s the philosophy that guides WVSOM’s day-to-day operations and plans for the future. Whether training doctors who will serve the state where they received their medical education, or creating programs like the CRCH that are working to make communities throughout the state better, the small medical school that is WVSOM is making a big impact throughout West Virginia. wvliving.com 21

Connecting Members to Care in West Virginia The Health Plan goes the extra mile in helping members manage chronic conditions. written by

alex panas-moore

If

you’ve lived in West Virginia for a while, you’ve probably noticed a bright green apple on a billboard, in your doctor’s office, or even on your insurance card. The Health Plan’s apple logo has long been a symbol of good health and well-being, and the employees who work there help carry out that mission every day.

For 40 years, The Health Plan (THP), has been committed to improving the quality of health care throughout the state, providing neighbor-to-neighbor customer service, and continually growing through innovation. As a nonprofit health organization, 90 cents of every dollar goes toward the care of its members.

This allows members to receive health care management with a personal touch—which, in turn, is helping West Virginians overcome some of the state’s biggest health crises.

management programs. THP’s registered nurses act as care navigators, helping to create West Virginians have long struggled with chronic simple and effective care plans with members conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and and their doctors. Members who have been chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). diagnosed with diabetes, COPD, chronic In fact, West Virginia ranks first in the nation in heart failure, or coronary artery disease are the prevalence of heart disease and COPD and paired with registered nurses who give them second in the incidence of diabetes. the information and tools they need to take When it comes to improving health outcomes control of their health. across the state, preventive care and education are More than 1,300 members are imperative. West Virginians need advocates to currently engaged in one of THP’s disease make navigating the healthcare system easier— management programs. The one-on-one and that’s where THP comes in. support provided by these programs helps THP has made tackling these chronic health build trust among the entire care team while conditions a priority through their disease treating members with the empathy, dignity, and respect they deserve.

One-on-One Support

COURTESY OFTHE HEALTH PLAN

Taking on the Opioid Crisis

Jim Pennington, The Health Plan president and CEO.

In addition to struggling with chronic disease, West Virginia is also in the grip of the ongoing opioid crisis. Lawmakers, governmental organizations, and private and public entities have pushed to come up with solutions to ease the hardships West Virginians are facing. While there are no quick fixes to solve this complex problem, THP is part of a collaborative effort to figure out how to move toward progress.

In 2018, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources implemented an Opioid Response Plan, outlining a multifaceted approach to addressing the opioid crisis including prevention, early intervention, treatment, overdose reversal, and social support. These first steps are vital to improving rates of addiction, prescription drug misuse, and recovery.

To help address these issues, THP worked to become part of the solution. In fall 2017, THP implemented an opioid management program to minimize the risks of addiction.

Through this program, members who receive their first opioid prescription are limited to a five-day supply of medication. During that time, members receive individualized education from certified behavioral health staff regarding safe use of opioids and the risks associated with misuse.

THP also implemented a drug dependency treatment program for those already struggling with addiction, which includes both pharmacotherapy and behavioral health therapy. Since this program was initiated, THP has successfully helped guide more than 2,000 members toward lives of recovery.

Working Together

Recognizing the strength in numbers, THP has also embraced strategic partnerships that align with its values and goals. For more than a decade, THP has partnered with Camp Catch Your Breath and Camp Kno Koma to provide resources to the community that address significant health concerns for West Virginia’s children.

The two summer camps, focused on children with asthma and diabetes respectively, provide education in a fun, safe setting where the kids can learn to live well with their conditions. Qualifying THP members can attend these camps free of charge. In 2018, THP received applications from 24 children who wanted to attend Camp Catch Your Breath, the highest wvliving.com 23

Emma’s Story

number since the company began offering grants in 2008.

Initiatives such as these, along with support from disease management nurses, has increased medication compliance and helped lower emergency department visit rates among engaged members.

THP sees it as their responsibility to help build stronger, healthier communities, which is why the company has made some crucial investments that benefit the entire state. Most noteworthy is THP’s scholarship program, which has now been around for more than 10 years.

During that time, THP has awarded over $2 million dollars in tuition to 46 doctors and nurses who are proud to call West Virginia home.

This not only keeps West Virginia’s best and brightest medical talent in the state but also provides patients with access to health care providers who can empathize with their struggles and better understand their care needs and potential barriers.

A Hometown Advantage

Coming off of an exciting year in their new corporate headquarters in Wheeling, THP is showing no signs of slowing down. As the state’s only West Virginia–based non-profit managed care organization, the company has goals that include becoming West Virginia’s insurance provider for foster care and continuing to create a quality of care model among health systems across the state.

24 wv living healthy • spring 2019

So what sets THP apart from the rest?

Ask James Pennington, president and CEO of The Health Plan, and he’ll say it’s all about the people. “One of our biggest strengths as a company is the dynamic team of health care professionals that we have working today, day in and day out, to make sure our members are taken care of,” he says. “By having experienced doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and behavioral health specialists in-house, we are able to easily collaborate and deliver innovative and effective solutions to help our members.

“We also place an emphasis on treating our members how they would want to be treated.

With nearly all of our employees born and raised in the area, we have unique insight into the barriers our members face as well as the resources that are available to help them.”

About The Health Plan The Health Plan offers a wide variety of insurance products, including commercial, self-funded, Medicare, Medicaid, and PEIA plans, and is also the only plan in West Virginia that provides a plan for dualeligible Medicare and Medicaid patients.

THP’s Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan serves West Virginia’s most vulnerable population, many of whom are disabled, diagnosed with multiple chronic illnesses, and living on very limited incomes.

Emma*, a teenage Medicaid member with THP, is an example of how proper intervention can create lasting, positive changes in health outcomes and quality of life.

Emma was experiencing serious complications as a result of uncontrolled diabetes.

She was enrolled in THP’s case management program, where she had the support of a complex case manager as well as a certified diabetes nurse educator. Once it became evident that her parents weren’t able to provide the level of care needed to maintain her health, Emma’s care was transferred to her grandmother.

Her THP case manager helped Emma’s grandmother receive full custody and worked hand-inhand with both grandmother and granddaughter to make sure they had the information, tools, and resources needed to take control of Emma’s health.

Emma now regularly attends school and her A1C (blood sugar) levels are much healthier. She is eating home-cooked meals and keeping up with routine doctor’s appointments. Emma has also experienced a tremendous improvement to her emotional well-being. Her grandmother tells us she is “blossoming,” making friends at school and feeling a sense of comfort and care at home. *Name and other identifying information have been changed to protect the privacy of our member.

The West Virginia Model WVU Medicine is addressing the opioid epidemic through innovative treatment and prevention methods. written by angela

knopf wvliving.com 25

A

ddiction, or substance use disorder, is a chronic disease.

Like many chronic conditions, it is no respecter of persons— striking people of all ages, genders, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. And like some chronic diseases, such as diabetes, choices are involved in the development and perpetuation of the disease.

It is important to note, however, that this condition is amenable to treatment and not a moral failing.

WVU Medicine experts are working diligently to turn the tide of the opioid epidemic and the stigma surrounding it by treating those already in the throes of addiction, advocating to lawmakers on their behalf, finding new opioid-free ways to treat chronic pain, and researching ways technology could be used to prevent relapses in those who are in recovery.

Treatment at the WVU Medicine Chestnut Ridge Center

The Comprehensive Opioid Addiction Treatment (COAT) program at WVU Medicine has become a highly successful model for medication-assisted opioid addiction treatment.

The program, which was developed at WVU Medicine, combines group therapy; individual therapy; mutual-support programming, such as Narcotics Anonymous; and Suboxone, a prescription medicine that combines buprenorphine and naloxone. By providing structured peer support, addressing motivations for drug use, and using medication to suppress symptoms of addiction, this model has helped thousands of people enter recovery and build productive lives since it began in 2004.

26 wv living healthy • spring 2019

“Using buprenorphine products to manage opioid addiction has transformed the field of addiction treatment,” says Dr. James Berry, addiction psychiatrist and medical director at WVU Medicine’s Chestnut Ridge Center.

“Prior to their availability, the vast majority of patients with heroin or pain pill addiction were only given the option of detoxification, which has proven to be woefully unsuccessful.

This treatment is a dramatic improvement from the over 90 percent dropout rates of detoxification, but still unacceptable as many of these patients will go on to relapse and possibly die.”

The COAT model has gained national attention. Health professionals from across the country, who often refer to the program as simply “the West Virginia model,” regularly travel to Morgantown to learn about it. The program was so sought out by patients that it once had a waiting list of several hundred people.

In an effort to increase access to this evidence-based treatment and cut down the waiting list, the program opened a location near the Cheat Lake area of Morgantown in 2016. WVU Medicine addiction specialists also travel the state training providers and supporting them through teleconferencing.

In March, the WVU Medicine Center for Hope and Healing opened in Morgantown.

The Center works with adults struggling with addiction through medically managed withdrawal and medication-assisted treatment in a residential treatment setting. The 28-day program offers person-

centered care that also includes individual treatment plans, family support services, and mindfulness-based practices.

“Not only have we not been able to provide this type of treatment, but the whole state has not had a facility like this before,” Berry says. “This will be a huge asset for us to help people along their path to recovery.”

Prevention through opioidsparing treatments

As part of an ongoing commitment to battle opioid addiction, the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) marked a major milestone in November 2018, when it enrolled the first patient in a randomized clinical trial that will test the effectiveness of an injectable non-opioid, non-steroid micropellet to treat sciatica.

The phase III clinical trial uses a clonidine micropellet, which is half the size of a grain of rice and is placed in the lower back to combat sciatica pain for up to one year.

“Innovative technologies that act directly at a target location like this micropellet are crucial to reducing the need for systemic medications and opioids for chronic pain,” says Dr. Ali Rezai, executive chair of the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute.

Rezai is not directly involved in the trial since he serves as a scientific advisor to Sollis Therapeutics, the Ohio-based interventional pain company developing the micropellet.

“Our hope is that we can look back on this day and say we made a significant advance

What are opioids?

in the ongoing efforts to treat chronic pain and combat the opioid crisis,” he says.

With more than five million people in the U.S. affected by sciatica—one of the most common causes of back and leg pain—the Sollis micropellet can potentially provide patients with a pain-relief solution and an alternative to addictive opioid pain medications. Unfortunately, in many cases, currently available treatment options for the pain management of sciatica and other back pain have inadvertently led to opioid abuse. “Having the opportunity to investigate new non-opioid treatments for sciatica and a range of pain conditions is directly aligned with the WVU Medicine Center for Integrative Pain Management’s mission to combat the opioid crisis in West Virginia and nationwide,” says Dr. Richard Vaglienti, principal investigator and director of the Center for Integrative Pain Management.

In West Virginia, where the number of opioid-related deaths is on course to set a record for overdose deaths this year, the micropellet procedure—if successful—could one day be a game-changer.

“Knowing that even a single day of opioid usage is associated with a probability that the patient will be taking opioids a year later underscores the need for innovations like ours to impact the opioid crisis,” says Dr. Gregory Fiore, president and CEO of Sollis Therapeutics. “We are pleased to team up with the researchers at the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute and other sites nationwide.”

WVU President Gordon Gee says the work of the doctors and researchers at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute will “help make all of our lives better.” “This kind of ground-breaking research would not be possible without the

assistance of many people, including Gov. Jim Justice, Rep. David McKinley, and Senators Shelley Moore Capito and Joe Manchin, all of whom have been fully supportive of these initiatives,” Gee says.

Treatment and prevention in the future

Looking ahead, researchers at RNI are investigating the use of wearable technology to head off relapses in patients who are in treatment for substance abuse disorders.

The Institute has developed a data collection program that uses a smartphone app and wearable technology, similar to an activity tracker or smart watch, to monitor and collect continuous data from patients while they are at home and out living their daily lives. The patient interacts with a smartphone-based application to fill out surveys and perform a series of tasks while the wearable device collects physiological data, such as heart rate, physical activity, body temperature, respiration, and sleep.

All of this data ends up in the RNI Cloud, allowing data analytic teams to monitor patient outcomes and predict times for interventions, potentially heading off relapses. Key collaborations are ongoing with cutting-edge wearable device manufacturers. “It’s exciting to develop this infrastructure and partner with companies to provide the best technology to improve the lives of our patient population,” says Victor Finomore, director of human performance and applied neuroscience at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute. “If this proves successful, it has the potential to revolutionize the way we treat substance abuse disorder.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines opioids as “natural or synthetic chemicals that interact with opioid receptors on nerve cells in the body and brain, and reduce the intensity of pain signals and feelings of pain. This class of drugs includes the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain medications available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, and many others. Opioid pain medications are generally safe when taken for a short time and as prescribed by a doctor, but because they produce euphoria in addition to pain relief, they can be misused.”

What does the opioid epidemic look like in West Virginia?

According to the CDC, West Virginia led the nation in the number of drug overdose deaths in 2017 with 57.8 per 100,000 people. Rounding out the top five were West Virginia’s neighbors: Ohio (46.3 per 100,000 people), Pennsylvania (44.3 per 100,000 people), the District of Columbia (44 per 100,000 people), and Kentucky (37.2 per 100,000 people).

West Virginia has also experienced what the CDC calls a “statistically significant” increase in drug overdose death rates—11.2 percent—from 2016 to 2017. Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky also had statistically significant increases in their drug overdose death rates. wvliving.com 27

ADDICTION RECOVERY Resource Guide SPONSORED BY

Don’t know where to turn for help? The first step is knowing who to ask.

Below is a statewide listing of addiction recovery resources.*

A Brighter Tomorrow Christian counseling and therapy services 1586 Winchester Avenue Martinsburg 304.267.0818 abrightertomorrow.org

Anchor Medical Clinic offering substance abuse disorder treatment 1196 Airport Road Beaver 304.253.5155 anchormedicalwv.com

The Addiction Healing Center at Saint Francis Hospital Inpatient and outpatient treatment 333 Laidley Street Charleston 800.992.3010 thomashealth.org

Anchor Project Transitional home for individuals leaving prison or substance abuse treatment 51 Olde Main Plaza Saint Albans 304.729.8017 tenupministries.org

Addiction Services Outpatient treatment Sugar Hollow Industrial Center Lot 3 Berkeley Springs 304.258.2889 eastridgehealthsystems.org

Appalachian Community Health Center—Barbour County Outpatient treatment 124 Greystone Court Belington 304.823.3873 achcinc.org

Addictions Services for Pregnant Women 1340 Hal Greer Boulevard Huntington 304.691.1400 cabellhuntington.org Advocate House Residential recovery program for men 738 Washington Avenue Huntington 304.208.0215 advocatehouse.com Allegheny Psychological Services Psychological and counseling 300 Foxcroft Avenue, Suite 306 Martinsburg 304.276.1663 allegheny-psychological.com

Appalachian Community Health Center—Randolph County Outpatient treatment 725 Yokum Street Elkins 304.636.3232 achcinc.org Appalachian Community Health Center—Tucker County Outpatient treatment 601 Walnut Street Parsons 304.478.2764 achcinc.org Appalachian Community Health Center—Upshur County

Outpatient treatment 27 South Kanawha Street Buckhannon 304.472.2022 achcinc.org Appalachian Health Services—Huntington Specializing in treating chemical dependency 601 20th Street Huntington 304.781.0212 ohiovalleyphysicians.com Appalachian Health Services—Logan Specializing in treating chemical dependency 557 Main Street Logan 304.896.5001 ohiovalleyphysicians.com Appalachian Health Services—Ravenswood Specializing in treating chemical dependency 705 Washington Street Ravenswood 304.786.1500 ohiovalleyphysicians.com Appalachian Health Services—Ripley Specializing in treating chemical dependency 314 Clay Lick Road Ripley 304.786.1500 ohiovalleyphysicians.com Appalachian Psychiatric Services Psychiatric outpatient clinic 1014 Johnstown Road Beckley

304.252.4433 “Appalachian Psychiatric Services” on Facebook Area Psychiatric & Psychotherapy Group Outpatient treatment 10 6th Avenue W Huntington 304.525.9355 Ascension Recovery Services Clinical, family-focused substance abuse services 206 Spruce Street Morgantown ascensionrs.com Beckley Comprehensive Treatment Center Medication assisted treatment 175 Philpot Lane Beaver 304.254.9267 westvirginiactc.com Beyond Addiction Counseling support groups for friends and families of substance abusers, meeting at locations across the state kpcc.com/craft The Bob Mays Recovery Center Residential substance abuse treatment facility 1 Hospital Plaza Clarksburg 304.623.2178 uscwv.org BoMar Club Recovery group providing drugand alcohol-free activities

306 N. Church Street Ripley 304.372.3722 thebomarclub.org/The-BoMarDrop-In-Center.html BreakThru Medical withdrawal management program 800 Wheeling Avenue Glen Dale 304.221.4528 tritaniumsolutions.com/ breakthru-medical-withdrawalmanagement.html Brian’s Safehouse 12-month inpatient program for men 368 Dearing Drive Mount Hope 304.763.7655 brianssafehouse.org Cabell Huntington Hospital Counseling Center Counseling services 517 9th Street Huntington 304.526.2049 cabellhuntington.org/services/ counseling-services Cabell County Quick Response Team Emergency medical services for overdoses victims 846 8th Avenue Huntington 304.526.8541 facebook.com/qrthuntington Callahan Counseling Services Family therapy 1020 Winchester Avenue Martinsburg 304.886.4118 callahancounselingservices.com

*This is not an endorsement or a comprehensive list of addiction services—for a full listing, go to help4wv.com.

If you need help immediately, call 1-844-HELP-4-WV

Callahan Counseling Services Family therapy 130 Augustine Avenue Charles Town 304.451.0989 callahancounselingservices.com CAMC Memorial—Behavioral Health Services Outpatient treatment 3200 MacCorkle Avenue SE Charleston 304.388.1000 camc.org/bmed CAMC Physicians Group Primary Care—Winfield Outpatient treatment 12576 Winfield Road Winfield 304.586.0111 camc.org/bmed Charleston Comprehensive Treatment Center Medication-assisted treatment 2157 Greenbrier Street Charleston 304.344.5924 westvirginiactc.com Charleston Prevention, Recovery, and Wellness Center The Partnership of African American Churches substance abuse services 1514 Kanawha Boulevard Charleston 304.768.7688 paac2.org/substance_abuse_ control.php Charleston Quick Response Team Emergency medical services for overdoses victims 304.962.6103 qrtcharleston@gmail.com Christian Psychological Services Inpatient and outpatient counseling services 55 Meridian Parkway, Suite 103 Martinsburg 304.260.8808 christian-psychological.com Community Recovery Center Utilizes 12-step program 1721 Latrobe Street Parkersburg 304.834.3928 communityrecoverywv.org The Counseling Connection— Charleston Counseling services 1021 Quarrier Street, Suite 414 Charleston 304.340.3676 tccwv.org The Counseling Connection— Ripley Counseling services 630 South Church Street

Ripley 304.340.3676 tccwv.org Courageous Journey, PLLC Family-oriented therapy 1664 Winchester Avenue Martinsburg 304.901.4347 courageousjourney.biz Crittenton Services, Inc. Residential Program Level II Trauma-informed multi-service agency 2606 National Road Wheeling 1.800.280.2229 crittentonwv.org Eastridge Health Systems— Berkeley County Outpatient mental health services 235 South Water Street Martinsburg 304.263.8954 eastridgehealthsystems.org Eastridge Health Systems— Jefferson County Outpatient mental health services 340 Edmund Road, Suite D Kearneysville 304.725.7565 eastridgehealthsystems.org Eastridge Health Systems— Morgan County Outpatient mental health services 89 Sugar Hollow Business Park Berkeley Springs 304.258.2889 eastridgehealthsystems.org Family & Marital Counseling Center, Inc. Substance abuse and addiction counseling 321 West Main Street, Suite 400 Clarksburg 304.269.3923 fmccwv.org Family & Marital Counseling Center, Inc. Substance abuse and addiction counseling 5 Brown Avenue Weston 304.269.3923 fmccwv.org Family Care Health Center Mental health, addiction, and social services 97 Great Teays Blvd., Suite 6 Scott Depot 304.757.6999 familycarewv.org Family Service Counseling Individual and family counseling for substance abuse and other issues 1102 Memorial Boulevard, West Huntington 304.523.9454

goodwillhunting.org/family-servicecounseling/ FMRS Health Systems, Inc.— Fayette County Intensive outpatient treatment, medication assisted treatment, and several programs: the Crisis Stabilization detoxification program; the intensive residential treatment MOTHER Program; the Turning Pointe residential treatment program for pregnant or postpartum women; and the LEARN Program residential treatment program for adult men.

209 West Maple Avenue Fayetteville 304.574.2100 fmrs.org FMRS Health Systems, Inc.— Monroe County Offers intensive outpatient treatment, medication assisted treatment, and several programs: Crisis Stabilization detoxification program, MOTHER Program is an intensive residential treatment program, Turning Pointe residential treatment program for pregnant or postpartum women, and LEARN Program is a residential treatment program for men ages 18 and older 1 Middle Street Union 304.772.5452 fmrs.org FMRS Health Systems, Inc.— Raleigh County FMRS Health Systems, Inc. Intensive outpatient treatment, medication assisted treatment, and several programs: the Crisis Stabilization detoxification program; the intensive residential treatment MOTHER Program; the Turning Pointe residential treatment program for pregnant or postpartum women; and the LEARN Program residential treatment program for adult men.

101 South Eisenhower Drive Beckley 304.256.7100 fmrs.org FMRS Health Systems, Inc.— Summers County Intensive outpatient treatment, medication assisted treatment, and several programs: the Crisis Stabilization detoxification program; the intensive residential treatment MOTHER Program; the Turning Pointe residential treatment program for pregnant or postpartum women; and the LEARN Program residential treatment program for adult men.

198 Pleasant Street Hinton 304.466.3899 fmrs.org

Great Rivers Regional System for Addiction Care Collaborative of 70-plus organizations in Cabell, Jackson, Kanawha, and Putnam counties to provide comprehensive substance use disorder treatment 35 Chase Drive Hurricane 304.691.6858 marshallhealth.org/greatrivers Hampshire Lighthouse Recovery home for adult women 850 North High Street Romney 304.822.7499 hcpathways.org Harmony Ridge Recovery Center Recovery and treatment 47 Chambers Circle Road Walker 866.728.3982 harmonyridgerecovery.com Healing Hearts Journey Christian addiction support Wheeling 304.281.0474 heart2heart-livingfree.com HealthWays, Inc.—Brooke County Outpatient, short-term residential, long-term residential 304.723.5440 http://healthwaysinc.com HealthWays, Inc.—Hancock County Short-term residential, long-term residential, intensive outpatient treatment, regular outpatient treatment 501 Colliers Way Weirton 304.723.5440 healthwaysinc.com HealthWays, Inc.—Miracles Happen Short-term residential, long-term residential, intensive outpatient treatment, regular outpatient treatment 201 Edington Lane Wheeling 304.242.0217 healthwaysinc.com Help4WV 24/7 helpline and online directory of state services 844.HELP4WV help4wv@1stchs.com help4wv.com Highland Health Center Substance abuse detoxification 300 56th Street SE Charleston 304.926.1669 highlandhosp.com Highland House Long-term residential program for

women 18 years old or older 1205 Highland Avenue Bluefield 304.320.6401 Hillcrest Behavioral Health Services Outpatient counseling and substance abuse services 2000 Eoff Street Wheeling 304.234.8887 ovmc-eorh.com/other-facilities/ hillcrest-behavioral-healthsystem.asp Huntington Comprehensive Treatment Center Medication assisted treatment 135 4th Avenue Huntington 304.525.5691 westvirginiactc.com Huntington VA Medical Center Services for veterans 1540 Spring Valley Drive Huntington 304.429.6741 huntington.va.gov Jacob’s Ladder Long-term residential treatment program for men Aurora 304.239.1214 jacobsladderbrookside.com Kanawha Pastoral Counseling Center Addiction support and counseling Charleston 304.342.5212 kpcc.com The Lifehouse—Huntington Long-term residential, nontreatment recovery housing for men 2210 9th Avenue Huntington 304.972.6601 thelifehousewv.com The Lifehouse—Huntington Long-term residential, nontreatment recovery housing for men 631 4th Street Huntington 304.416.5000 thelifehousewv.com The Lifehouse—Huntington Long term-residential, nontreatment recovery housing for women 5th Avenue & Trenton Place Huntington 304.416.5007 thelifehousewv.com Logan Mingo Area Mental Health Detox and addiction services, short-term residential, outpatient recovery

*This is not an endorsement or a comprehensive list of addiction services—for a full listing, go to help4wv.com.

If you need help immediately, call 1-844-HELP-4-WV

wvliving.com 29

174 LMAMH Center Road Logan and Mingo counties 304.792.7130 lmamh.org

housing 1326 10th Avenue Huntington oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv

Martinsburg Institute Medication-assisted treatment 223 Eagle School Road Martinsburg 304.263.1101 addictiontreatmentsystems.com

Oxford House—Benwood Residential non-treatment recovery housing 419 Main Street Benwood oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv

Mary & Martha House Sober living home 95 East 11th Street Wheeling 304.233.0157 youthservicessystem.org/services/ lazarus-house/184

Oxford House—Bonnie Residential non-treatment recovery housing 309 South 22nd Street Clarksburg oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv

Mountaineer Behavioral Health Substance abuse treatment 55 Meridian Parkway, Suite 103 Martinsburg 304.901.2070 Narcotics Anonymous Addiction support 800.766.4442 na.org Newness of Life Therapeutic, peer-supported community 2210 9th Avenue Huntington 304.972.6601 newnessoflife.care Northern Appalachian Adult and Teen Challenge Recovery support and spiritual formation 1651 Unity Road Oakvale 304.384.3307 wvteenchallenge.com Northwood Health Systems Addiction services 111-19th Street Wheeling 304.234.7777 northwoodhealth.com Northwood Health Systems Addiction services 307 Main Street New Martinsville 304.455.3622 northwoodhealth.com Northwood Health Systems Addiction services 353 American Way Weirton 304.217.3050 northwoodhealth.com Northwood Health Systems Addiction services 10 Ash Avenue Moundsville 304.845.3000 northwoodhealth.com

Oxford House—Cabell Residential non-treatment recovery housing 2409 9th Avenue Huntington oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—Chloe Residential non-treatment recovery housing 628 South Queen Street Martinsburg oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—Country Roads Residential non-treatment recovery housing 3617 Orchard Street Weirton oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—Dunbar Residential non-treatment recovery housing 216 20th Street Dunbar oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—Grand Residential non-treatment recovery housing 309 Grand Street Clarksburg oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—Grove Avenue Residential non-treatment recovery housing 319 Grove Avenue Charleston oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—GTO Residential non-treatment recovery housing 324 8th Avenue Huntington oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—Jefferson Residential non-treatment recovery housing 585 Jefferson Avenue Charles Town oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv

Oxford House—Jewel Residential non-treatment Oxford House—Ana Residential non-treatment recovery recovery housing

424 A/B Duff Avenue Clarksburg oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—King Street Residential non-treatment recovery housing 206 E. King Street Martinsburg www.oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—Leahy Residential non-treatment recovery housing 112 Washington Avenue Wheeling www.oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—Martinsburg Residential non-treatment recovery housing 820 N. Queen Street Martinsburg www.oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—Marvel Residential non-treatment recovery housing 464 Hornor Avenue Clarksburg www.oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—North Fork Residential non-treatment recovery housing 447 South Chestnut Street Clarksburg oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv

Weirton oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—West Washington Residential non-treatment recovery housing 1457 11th Ave. Huntington oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—Woodburn Residential non-treatment recovery housing 900 Snider Street Morgantown oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Paloma Crisis Stabilization and Detox Unit Detox treatment facility 415 Wilson Street Martinsburg 304.579.4455 www.callahancounselingservices.com Parkersburg Comprehensive Treatment Center Medication-assisted treatment 184 Holiday Hills Drive Parkersburg 304.420.2400 treatmentworkswv.com Peer Recovery Resource Center 386 Cumberland Road Romney 304.359.2185 hcpathways.org

Oxford House—Oak Hill Residential non-treatment recovery housing 1410 Linden Lane Oak Hill oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv

Peer Support, Inc. Peer support and housing 1517 19th Street Parkersburg 304.485.8831 peersupportinc.org

Oxford House—Park Drive Residential non-treatment recovery housing 707 Main Street Charleston oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv

Phoenix Psychological and Counseling Associates Counseling and treatment services 4579 Buckhannon Pike Mount Clare 304.622.6431 phoenixassociateswv.com

Oxford House—Penn Street Residential non-treatment recovery housing 301 South Penn Street Wheeling oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv Oxford House—Serene Place Residential non-treatment recovery housing 83 Allegheny Street Keyser oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv

Potomac Crossroads Counseling Counseling services 129 East German Street Shepherdstown 304.876.2770 potomacxroads.com

Potomac Highlands Guild— Grant County Outpatient Psychiatric Services 7 Mountain View Street Petersburg 304.257.1155 Oxford House—Wallace Residential non-treatment recovery thephg.org housing Potomac Highlands Guild— 513 Wyoming Street Hampshire County Charleston Outpatient Psychiatric Services oxfordhouse.org/pdf/wv 245 North Charlevoix Place Romney Oxford House—Weir Residential non-treatment recovery 304.822.3897 thephg.org housing 237 South 12th Street

Potomac Highlands Guild— Hardy County Outpatient psychiatric services 79 Robert C. Byrd Industrial Park Road Moorefield 304.538.2302 thephg.org Potomac Highlands Guild— Mineral County Outpatient Psychiatric Services 3334 New Creek Highway New Creek 304.788.2241 thephg.org Potomac Highlands Guild— Pendleton County Outpatient psychiatric services 30 Maple Avenue Franklin 304.358.2351 thephg.org Prestera Center—Boone County Outpatient, intensive outpatient treatment services 376 Kenmore Drive Danville 304.369.1930 prestera.org Prestera Center—Cabell County Outpatient, intensive outpatient treatment services for children, youth, and families Margarette R. Leach Center For Youth and Families Huntington 304.525.7851 prestera.org Prestera Center—Kanawha County Outpatient, intensive outpatient treatment services for children, youth, and families 511 Morris Street Charleston 304.341.0511 prestera.org Prestera Center—Clay County Outpatient, intensive outpatient treatment services 602 Main Street Clay 304.587.4205 prestera.org Prestera Center—Huntington Crisis residential, inpatient, shortterm facility for detox 3375 US Route 60 East Huntington 304.522.3740 prestera.org Prestera Center—Logan Crisis residential, inpatient, shortterm facility for detox 197 Dingess Street Logan 304.752.0714 prestera.org

*This is not an endorsement or a comprehensive list of addiction services—for a full listing, go to help4wv.com.

If you need help immediately, call 1-844-HELP-4-WV

Prestera Center—Harbor House Transitional living facility 1716 7th Avenue Charleston 304.344.0270 prestera.org Prestera Center—Kanawha County Outpatient, intensive outpatient treatment services 511 Morris Street Charleston 304.341.0511 prestera.org Prestera Center—Laurelwood Residential, long-term residential 432 Sixth Avenue Huntington 304.525.5250 prestera.org Prestera Center—Laurelwood East Residential, long-term residential 2305 Dunbar Avenue Dunbar 304.768.6119 prestera.org Prestera Center—Lincoln County Outpatient, intensive outpatient 25 Lincoln Plaza Branchland 304.824.5790 prestera.org Prestera Center—Mason County Outpatient, intensive outpatient 710 Viand Street Point Pleasant 304.675.2361 prestera.org Prestera Center—Mason Recovery Home Residential long-term recovery housing 712 Main Street Point Pleasant 304.675.2361 prestera.org Prestera Center—Mattie V. Lee Residential long-term recovery housing 810 Donnally Street Charleston 304.344.1827 prestera.org Prestera Center—PARC East (Addictions Recovery in Charleston) Intensive outpatient and medication assisted treatment 96 MacCorkle Avenue South Charleston 304.414.3075 prestera.org Prestera Center—PARC Riverside Long-term and short-term residential 7004 Kanawha Street Saint Albans 304.722.1795 prestera.org

Prestera Center—Pinecrest Short-term and long-term residential treatment for women 5600 U.S. Route 60 East Huntington 304.525.7851 prestera.org Prestera Center—Putnam County Outpatient, intensive outpatient 252 Courthouse Drive Winfield 304.586.0670 prestera.org Prestera Center—Wayne County Outpatient, intensive outpatient 145 Kenova Avenue Wayne 304.272.3466 prestera.org Prestera Center—Cabell County Outpatient and intensive outpatient program 1853 Eighth Avenue Huntington 304.525.7851 prestera.org Prestera Center—Kanawha County Outpatient and intensive outpatient co-occurring program 1143 Dunbar Avenue Dunbar 304.766.7336 prestera.org PROACT—Provider Response Organization for Addiction Care & Treatment Comprehensive treatment in a single accessible service hub 800 20th Street Huntington 304.696.8700 proactwv.org Project Hope for Women & Children Residential treatment facility for mothers and their children 1012 7th Avenue Huntington 304.696.HOPE huntingtoncitymission.org/ services/project-hope Psychological Counseling Therapies, PLLC Counseling 1516 Winchester Avenue Martinsburg 304.350.1758 pctpllc.com Pyramid Counseling LLC Addiction counseling Valley Medical Associates Building, Suite 201 Lewisburg 304.256.0200 pyramidcounselingllc.com

Pyramid Counseling LLC Addiction counseling 130 George Street Beckley 304.256.0200 pyramidcounselingllc.com

304.526.9111 riverparkhospital.net

Pyramid Counseling LLC Addiction counseling 527 Second Avenue South Charleston 304.256.0200 pyramidcounselingllc.com

Seneca Health Services, Inc.— Crosswinds Center Crisis stabilization and detoxification services, outpatient, adolescent and adult substance abuse, and counseling 414 Industrial Park Road Maxwelton 304.497.2850 shsinc.org

Recovery Group of Southern West Virginia—Marjorie Oakley Home for Women Level II substance use recovery residence Logan 304.896.5008 recoveryswv.org Recovery Group of Southern West Virginia --New Beginnings Home for Men Level II substance use recovery residence Logan 304.896.6871 recoveryswv.org Recovery Point of Charleston Long-term residential recovery program 501 Stockton Street Charleston 304.633.5993 recoverypointwv.org Recovery Point of Huntington Long-term residential recovery program 2425 9th Avenue Huntington 304.523.4673 recoverypointwv.org Red Barn Stables Equine-assisted therapy 7095 Smith Creek Road Saint Albans 304.549.0561 redbarnstableswv.com Reformers Unanimous—Bible Baptist Temple Faith-based recovery program 1450 Cost Avenue Stonewood 304.623.2630 rurecovery.com Ridgeline Consulting Services, LLC Medication assisted addiction treatment center 2161 Childress Road Alum Creek 304.745.7837 ridgelinetreatment.com River Park Hospital Residential mental health treatment 1230 6th Avenue Huntington

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline samhsa.gov

Seneca Health Services, Inc.— Lewisburg Crisis stabilization and detoxification services, outpatient, adolescent and adult substance abuse, and counseling 100 Church Street Lewisburg 304.645.3319 shsinc.org Seneca Health Services, Inc.— Marlinton Crisis stabilization and detoxification services, outpatient, adolescent and adult substance abuse, and counseling 704 Third Avenue Marlinton 304.799.6865 shsinc.org Seneca Health Services, Inc.— Summersville Crisis stabilization, detox, outpatient, adolescent and adult substance abuse, and counseling 1 Stevens Road Summersville 304.872.2659 shsinc.org Seneca Health Services, Inc.— Summersville Crisis stabilization, detox outpatient, adolescent and adult substance abuse, and counseling 1305 Webster Road Summersville 304.872.6503 shsinc.org Seneca Health Services, Inc.— Webster Springs Crisis stabilization, detox, outpatient, adolescent and adult substance abuse, and counseling 70 Parcoal Road Webster Springs 304.847.5425 shsinc.org Serenity Club WV Recovery group 1225 Ohio Avenue Dunbar serenityclubwv.com

Shenandoah Valley Behavioral Health Services Detox, outpatient, medication assisted treatment 187 South Green Street Berkeley Springs 304.258.5600 svms.net Shenandoah Community Health Detox, outpatient, intensive outpatient 44 Trifecta Place, Suite 205 Charles Town 304.728.3716 svms.net Shenandoah Community Health Detox, outpatient, intensive outpatient 99 Tavern Road Martinsburg 304.263.7023 svms.net Southern Highlands Community Mental Health Center—Crisis Respite Unit Crisis Respite Unit 325 Mercer Street Princeton 681.282.5605 shcmhc.com Southern Highlands Community Mental Health Center— LEGENDS Residential program 327 Mercer Street Princeton 304.425.9489 shcmhc.com Southern Highlands Community Mental Health Center— McDowell County Outpatient, medication assisted treatment 19805 Coal Heritage Road Welch 304.436.2106 shcmhc.com Southern Highlands Community Mental Health Center—Mercer County Outpatient, detoxification, longterm residential treatment for men 200 12th Street Extension Princeton 304.425.9541 shcmhc.com Southern Highlands Community Mental Health Center— Wyoming County Outpatient, medication assisted treatment 102 Howard Avenue Mullens 304.294.5353 shcmhc.com

*This is not an endorsement or a comprehensive list of addiction services—for a full listing, go to help4wv.com.

If you need help immediately, call 1-844-HELP-4-WV

wvliving.com 31

United Summit Center— John D. Good Recovery Center Detox, residential short-term 100 Hopemont Drive Terra Alta 304.789.3143 uscwv.org

Sparrow’s Nest Inpatient residential treatment 368 Dearing Drive Mount Hope sparrowsnest.info Staggers Recovery House Residential recovery for women 2880 Fried Meat Ridge Road Keyser 304.289.5632 www.bumfs.org/staggers.html The Teen Straight Path Intervention program for teens Wheeling 304.281.0474 heart2heart-livingfree.com/livingfree-teen-straight-path Thomas Health Inpatient and outpatient programs 4605 MacCorkle Avenue SW South Charleston 304.766.3553 thomashealth.org/behavioral Turning Point Christian addiction ministry Wheeling 304.281.0474 heart2heart-livingfree.com/livingfree-turning-point Union Mission Residential program for single women with children Charleston 304.925.0366 unionmission.com

United Summit Center— Bridgeport Outpatient services 120 Medical Park Drive, Suite 401 Clarksburg 304.848.2000 uscwv.org

United Summit Center— Gilmer County Outpatient services 1471 WV Highway 5, SE Glenville 304.462.5721 uscwv.org

United Summit Center— Marion County Outpatient services 72 Roxbury Road Fairmont 304.367.9191 uscwv.org United Summit Center— Taylor County Outpatient services 403 North Pike Street Grafton 304.265.2470 uscwv.org Unity Center Support and peer-to-peer counseling 4850 Eoff Street Benwood 304.232.3888 @unitycenter4all on Facebook Valley Healthcare System— Fairmont Residential short-term 100 Crosswind Drive Fairmont 304.363.2228 valleyhealthcare.org

United Summit Center— Braxton County Outpatient program 10 Summit Center Circle Sutton 304.765.2801 uscwv.org

United Summit Center— Clarksburg Outpatient services #6 Hospital Plaza Clarksburg 304.623.5661 uscwv.org

United Summit Center— Lewis County Outpatient services 37 Elizabeth Drive Weston 304.269.5220 uscwv.org

Valley Healthcare System— Grafton Adolescent and adult outpatient services 501 North Pike Street Grafton 304.265.3947 valleyhealthcare.org Valley Healthcare System— Kingwood Adolescent and adult outpatient services 202 Tunnelton Street Kingwood 1.800.232.0020 valleyhealthcare.org Valley Healthcare System— Morgantown Adolescent and adult outpatient services, residential 301 Scott Avenue Morgantown 304.296.1731 valleyhealthcare.org

Valley Healthcare System— New Beginnings Specialized extended-care residential for adult women 820 Elysian Avenue Morgantown 304.363.2228 valleyhealthcare.org Wellspring Family Services— Brooke and Hancock counties Counseling and specialized treatment 3200 Main Street Weirton 304.748.3768 crittentonwv.org/wellspring Wellspring Family Services— Cabell, Putnam, and Wayne counties Counseling and specialized treatment 1596 Washington Boulevard Huntington 681.378.3881 crittentonwv.org/wellspring Wellspring Family Services— Calhoun, Doddridge, Gilmer, and Ritchie counties Counseling and specialized treatment 2479 Ellenboro Road Harrisville 304.643.5500 crittentonwv.org/wellspring Wellspring Family Services— Calhoun, Pleasants, Wirt, and Wood counties Counseling and specialized treatment 130 4th Street Parkersburg 304.916.1354 crittentonwv.org/wellspring Wellspring Family Services— Harrison, Preston, and Taylor counties Counseling and specialized treatment 165 Scott Avenue, Suite 208 Morgantown 304.292.1716 crittentonwv.org/wellspring Wellspring Family Services— Marshall and Ohio counties Counseling and specialized treatment 2606 National Road Wheeling 304.242.7060 crittentonwv.org/wellspring Wellspring Family Services— Tyler and Wetzel counties Counseling and specialized treatment 761 Third Street New Martinsville 304.455.3035 crittentonwv.org/wellspring

West Virginia Sober Living Sober living home for men Morgantown 304.413.4300 westvirginiasoberliving.com West Virginia Sober Living Sober living home for women Morgantown 304.413.4300 westvirginiasoberliving.com Westbrook Health Services— Amity Treatment Center 1011 Mission Drive Parkersburg 304.485.1781 westbrookhealth.org Westbrook Health Services— Genesis Apartments Residential long-term 1458 ½ 36th Street Parkersburg 304.865.5470 westbrookhealth.org Westbrook Health Services— Jackson County Addiction counseling, detox, crisis stabilization program, medication assisted treatment 3066 Charleston Road Ripley 304.372.6833 westbrookhealth.org Westbrook Health Services— Pleasants County Addiction counseling, detox, crisis stabilization program, medication assisted treatment 210 Second Street Saint Marys 304.684.2656 westbrookhealth.org Westbrook Health Services— Ritchie County Addiction counseling, detox, crisis stabilization program, medication assisted treatment 713 East Main Street Harrisville 304.643.2996 westbrookhealth.org

Wheeling Comprehensive Treatment Center Medication assisted treatment 40 Orrs Lane Triadelphia 304.547.9197 crchealth.com WV Health Right 1520 Washington Street, East Charleston 304.414.5930 wvhealthright.org WVU Medicine Center for Hope and Healing Medically managed withdrawal and residential program 751 Benefactor Drive Morgantown 304.974.3100, wvumedicine.org/hope WVU Medicine Chestnut Ridge Center Adult diagnosis unit for chemical dependent patients; comprehensive outpatient opioid addiction treatment; intensive outpatient program offering group, family, and individual therapy, Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings, and medical management 930 Chestnut Ridge Road Morgantown 304.598.4214 wvumedicine.org/rni/patientcare/behavioral-medicine-andpsychiatry Youth Services System, Inc.— Hope’s Promise Intensive outpatient program 87 15th Street Wheeling 304.233.9627 youthservicessystem.org

Westbrook Health Services— Roane County Addiction counseling, detox, crisis stabilization program, medication assisted treatment 227 Clay Road Spencer 304.927.5200 westbrookhealth.org Westbrook Health Services— Wood County Addiction counseling, detox, crisis stabilization program, medication assisted treatment 2121 ½ Seventh Street Parkersburg 304.485.1725 westbrookhealth.org

*This is not an endorsement or a comprehensive list of addiction services—for a full listing, go to help4wv.com.

If you need help immediately, call 1-844-HELP-4-WV

Call

1.844.HELP-4-WV

to connect to a support specialist or visit help4wv.com for an online directory of resources.