Behavioral Health Services Transition & Treatment Options

Spoke on behalf of Beacon Recovery, highlighting the life-saving holistic care provided and urging the county to protect patient choice in addiction treatment.

Shared her positive recovery experience at Beacon Recovery and urged commissioners not to close its doors by restricting Medicaid coverage.

Expressed deep concern over the rapid transition of behavioral health services to Bear River, lack of communication with treatment facilities, and the danger to recovery outcomes.

Shared her son's struggle with addiction and how Beacon Recovery finally saved his life, pleading with the commission to protect patient choice.

Shared how Beacon Recovery accepted her when she faced end-stage renal failure and homelessness, helping her stay sober and manage dialysis.

A registered nurse at Beacon Recovery for five years highlighted the program's 37% recidivism rate and warned against forcing patients into Bear River Mental Health.

A registered nurse and Beacon employee explained the unique holistic therapies used at Beacon, such as amino acid therapy and guided imagery, which are not offered at Bear River.

A yoga instructor at Beacon Recovery discussed how mindfulness and yoga help individuals in recovery slow down and process emotions before reacting.

Shared her family history with addiction and credited treatment centers with saving her brother's life, stating that proven programs like Beacon should be kept open.

Owner of Beacon Recovery and disabled veteran strongly criticized the Bear River mental health system, announced legal action against the health department, and defended patient choice.

Bear River Health Department director explained that the transition follows statewide managed care standards, controls taxpayer liability for Medicaid match, and allows single case agreements for Beacon clients.

A recovering addict and Beacon employee criticized Bear River Mental Health's substance abuse care and argued for patient choice in medical and recovery providers.