Substance Use Supportive Services

Substance use disorder is a complex and widespread challenge affecting individuals, families, and communities across the United States. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine analyzed 7 million Medicare beneficiaries and found that older adults hospitalized for substance or opioid use disorders were discharged to skilled nursing centers at a higher rate (26.4%) compared to those hospitalized for non-substance or opioid use-related conditions (22%).

Athena Health Care Systems, with 40 years of excellence in nursing home management, has evolved to meet this critical need. Responding to calls from hospitals and communities, we have become a trusted provider of skilled nursing care for individuals with substance use disorder since 2015.

Our Massachusetts and Rhode Island locations offer specialized care for individuals with substance use disorders who need the support of a skilled nursing center. We combine skilled nursing, therapy services, and mental health support to help residents regain strength and manage their diagnosis. Our centers provide a safe environment that reduces the risk of rehospitalizations and relapses, offering a vital bridge to recovery.

Our programs are designed to improve each resident’s quality of life, redefining what care in a nursing home can truly mean.

Our Specialized Substance Use Supportive Services

  • Behavioral and mental health support through individual and group counseling, empowering residents to manage their diagnosis.
  • Daily access to compassionate social workers and substance use disorder counselors.
  • Methadone maintenance support, if needed to ensure continuity of care.
  • After Care Coordinators facilitate smooth discharges from our facility to the community, ensuring a seamless continuum of care for residents’ long-term success.

Beyond medical care, we believe in enriching lives. Our life skills and activity programs provide residents with purpose and tools to rebuild their lives, preparing them for success after discharge.

Every day, we strive to create a safe, supportive environment that reduces the risk of rehospitalization and relapse. More importantly, we see beyond a diagnosis and honor the individual. We provide care that helps each resident heal, thrive, and rediscover hope.

Visit our locations throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island to find a center nearest you.

By the Numbers

5,657

total patients admitted to our skilled nursing centers in Massachusetts and Rhode Island in 2024

3,813

patients in Massachusetts and Rhode Island were admitted with a substance use disorder-related diagnosis in 2024

20

skilled nursing centers throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island offering substance use supportive services

14.2%

increase in admissions with a substance use diagnosis from 2023 to 2024