West Ridge Center Launches Open Access Program Improving Access and Reducing Wait Times

RUTLAND, VT – On Monday, March 17, the West Ridge Center, a Rutland Regional Medical Center specialized clinic for recovery and addiction, will kick off an Open Access Model for admissions. The Open Access Model is designed to improve access and reduce wait times for individuals seeking support for their opioid use disorder (OUD).

“Previously, if an individual requested treatment they would be given an appointment and it could be anywhere from 24 hours to a week before we could admit them,” said Faith Stone, RN, Program Director at the West Ridge Center. “Now, with the Open Access Model, we can begin the assessment and provide individuals with the appropriate medical assistance they need on the same day.”

Currently, the West Ridge Center treats between 350-425 patients daily. With the recent addition of a nurse practitioner and the new Open Access Model, the West Ridge staff can provide treatment for patients when they are ready to receive help.

Under the new Open Access Model, patients will be seen Monday through Friday from 6am to 11am and can expect to spend approximately two hours for a full assessment by clinical staff. The West Ridge Center nursing staff will help patients navigate the daily dosing system for OUD and all patients will have access to therapy and case management. The patient may also be referred to other agencies for additional assistance for needs such as housing, transportation, and medical care.

“We have a highly skilled and dedicated team of clinicians, nurses, and support staff at the West Ridge Center who are inspired by our patients every day,” said Stone. “Our patients are our community members and neighbors. It is of utmost importance to all of us that we are able to help our community members when they are ready to receive treatment.”