BANGOR – The Acadia Hospital has been chosen as one of 10 substance abuse treatment sites to participate in the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation national program Paths to Recovery. The program addresses organizational barriers to substance abuse treatment.

“We are very excited about working with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the other nine treatment programs to develop more effective substance abuse treatment access models,” said Lynn Madden, Acadia Hospital vice president.

Acadia’s involvement in Paths to Recovery is supported by Gov. John E. Baldacci.

“The goals of this initiative and the mission of The Acadia Hospital are consistent with my goals for improving services to the people of Maine. This type of effort can ensure that clients remain the priority as we reorganize our statewide service delivery system,” said Baldacci.

Nationally, fewer than one in four people addicted to alcohol or drugs receive treatment, and half of those who do leave the program before full benefits are realized.

By redesigning processes such as client intake, assessment, scheduling, outreach and family involvement, the goal is to create a more efficient system that makes it easier for clients to complete treatment.