Business Wire | September 18, 2024
Crossroads Treatment Centers (Crossroads), a leader in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and recovery services, has expanded its Instant Intake® service to improve access to care for individuals in Pennsylvania, Kentucky, New Jersey, Tennessee and Virginia.
With Instant Intake®, residents in these states can now be connected with a licensed provider in as little as 10 minutes through a single call. This service expansion ensures that individuals in need of substance use disorder treatment can begin their recovery process immediately, without unnecessary delays.
Instant Intake leverages a patient’s “moment of courage.” It helps patients avoid delays that may result in reduced motivation or a relapse. The innovative service of Crossroads seamlessly connects callers with one of its licensed providers.
The provider sees the caller in a virtual visit, makes an evaluation and, if appropriate, sends a prescription to the pharmacy. Crossroads arranges a follow-up visit at its nearest center within seven days.
Why Timely Access to Treatment Matters
The expansion of Instant Intake could significantly advance a patient’s journey at a time when, according to The National Council for Mental Wellbeing, the average wait time for substance use services nationwide is 48 days. This significant delay can deter individuals from seeking care or lead to a worsening of their condition.
The introduction of Instant Intake aims to tackle this challenge by reducing the time it takes for individuals to connect with a provider. This innovation ultimately improves the timeliness and effectiveness of care.
“Timely, high-quality treatment can be a game changer in substance use disorder recovery,” said Dr. James Stephen, Chief Medical Officer of Crossroads. “Our skilled and dedicated Instant Intake providers are ready to support patients in their time of need, offering education, encouragement and, when appropriate, treatment with life-saving medications.”
Addressing the Growing Crisis of Substance Use Disorders
An estimated 108,000 people in the United States died of drug overdoses in 2022, with Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids responsible for nearly 70% of those deaths, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Despite this growing crisis, many individuals seeking help face obstacles that make recovery seem out of reach. Crossroads addresses these challenges by ensuring patients can begin their treatment journey without delay.
Through Instant Intake, Crossroads provides a streamlined process that connects individuals with licensed providers without delay. Since its launch, over 24,500 patients have made appointments through Instant Intake and over 17,000 have accessed treatment. This highlights its important role in enhancing access to life-saving care across the country.
Simplifying the Intake Process for Immediate Care
The Instant Intake process begins with a simple phone call, during which patients are connected to a licensed provider.
This first step eliminates the traditional barriers to treatment, such as scheduling delays or confusion about where to seek help. Instead of navigating complex systems or waiting days or weeks for an appointment, patients are able to begin the treatment process immediately.
The convenience of Instant Intake is one of the reasons it has been so successful in providing quick access to care. Once connected with a provider, patients undergo an evaluation. If appropriate, they receive a prescription for medications such as Suboxone, which helps manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
A follow-up appointment is then scheduled at the nearest Crossroads treatment center to continue the recovery process.
Improving Access to Treatment in Underserved Areas
The expansion of Instant Intake to Pennsylvania, Kentucky, New Jersey, Tennessee and Virginia addresses a critical need for substance use disorder treatment in underserved areas. Many of these regions face limited access to addiction treatment services, and Instant Intake helps bridge this gap by allowing individuals in these communities to quickly access care.
Crossroads operates over 100 centers across nine states and offers evidence-based care that includes medication-based recovery support and counseling. By expanding the Instant Intake service to these new states, Crossroads is helping individuals in rural and underserved areas access treatment services.
Crossroads’ Commitment to Accessible Care
Crossroads has always prioritized accessible care. The organization’s approach combines timeliness with comprehensive, personalized treatment. Since its founding in 2005, Crossroads has operated with a clear purpose to make addiction treatment accessible to all who need it.
In addition to the Instant Intake service, Crossroads accepts Medicare, Medicaid and most commercial insurance plans so that financial barriers do not prevent individuals from seeking help. For those without insurance, Crossroads offers self-pay and other options.
A Proven Model of Success
Since its inception, Instant Intake has proven to be a successful model for improving access to care. Over 17,000 individuals have been able to access treatment through this service, demonstrating the positive impact it has had on substance use disorder recovery.
“The Crossroads Instant Intake process is reflective of our relentless commitment to meet people where they are in their time of need,” said Dr. Rupert McCormac, Founder and CEO of Crossroads. “If they call us for help during a moment of courage then we insist on being there for them, delivering lifesaving treatment during their very first call for help.”
A Step Forward in Addiction Treatment
The expansion of Instant Intake by Crossroads marks a crucial advancement in the way substance use disorder treatment is delivered. Crossroads is not only improving access to care but also saving lives by reducing wait times and ensuring that individuals can access care quickly.
The continued success of Instant Intake demonstrates its vital role in helping those struggling with addiction take their first step toward recovery, no matter the time or place.
Ready to take the first step toward recovery? Contact Crossroads today to learn more about the process and how we can support you in your journey. With our seamless, accessible and personalized care, we’re here to help you find the treatment you need, when you need it.