COVID-19 and Substance Use Disorder

For patients with substance use disorder, the sudden change in day-to-day life in response to the COVID-19 pandemic can be especially challenging.

While it’s critical that we practice social distancing to prevent the spread of the virus, it’s important to know that your community is still here.

As of this writing:

• South Shore Medical Center is seeing patients for substance use disorder appointments.
• South Shore Hospital’s bridge clinic is open for new patients. Existing Bridge Clinic patients will be cared for via a mix of telephone, telehealth visits with video, as well as in-person visits only if necessary or patient’s preference (and the patient is not having flu-like symptoms).  
• South Shore Health’s perinatal behavioral health program is caring for patients via telephone and telehealth appointments.

This may change as policies and needs evolve. Please call your provider to confirm your appointment and visit our COVID-19 page for important updates.

As South Shore Hospital prepares to meet the challenges of COVID-19, it’s understandable that many patients do not want to seek care in the healthcare setting, or meet in person. Fortunately, there are many resources available through community groups and national organizations.

Here are some valuable local resources on the South Shore:

• South Shore Peer Recovery is updating its Facebook page with helpful resources.
• Local detox centers are still operational. (South Shore Health does NOT offer inpatient detox.) Our team can connect you to the appropriate resources
• Local and regional Opioid Treatment Programs (methadone clinics) remain open to new patients. (South Shore Health does NOT offer methadone treatment.)
• If you usually attend in-person meetings or support groups, contact your organization to see if they’ve set up a virtual meeting option.

Our partners at Boston Medical Center have published a list of resources for patients with substance use disorder, including healthy ways to manage stress and dozens of online support groups to try as we all navigate this unprecedented situation.