The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians announced today the opening of a new health clinic specifically designed to combat drug and alcohol addiction. The Naandwejgegamig, or “Healing Place,” will be the first clinic within the Sault Tribe Health Division to specifically serve patients struggling with opioid and alcohol use disorders by offering medically assisted treatment programs.
The clinic will meet an important need in the Estern Upper Peninsula where people often drive long distances for specialized addiction treatments. It will be open to all patients, both tribal and non-tribal, with no prior referrals necessary.
“Addiction is a horrible disease that can trap anyone, regardless of their social status. It’s something that has been especially damaging to Native American communities both here in the U.P. and across the country, so the Sault Tribe is very proud to be able to offer a safe and effective place for those seeking help,” said Sault Tribe Chairman Austin Lowes.
Lowes noted that the Sault Tribe Board of Directors had begun planning for a medically assisted treatment clinic more than a year ago and that the need was also identified as part of the tribe’s healthcare revitalization efforts.
The state Department of Health and Human Services reported 2,536 opioid deaths in Michigan in 2021. According to the National Center for Drug and Alcohol Statistics, the number of deaths in Michigan related to excessive alcohol use has averaged at 4,548, with nearly 60% stemming from chronic causes such as use disorder and liver problems.
Research has proven that medication can help relieve withdrawal symptoms and the psychological cravings caused by chemical imbalances in the body when a person is working to overcome substance abuse issues. Patients receiving outpatient addiction treatment at Naandwejgegamig will be administered evidence-based medication by trained nurse practitioners who are overseen by a physician.
Teresa Plummer will serve as Naandwejgegamig supervisor. She is a certified family nurse practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing and a specialization in addiction medicine. Dr. Lowell Styer is the collaborating physician who will oversee all prescribed treatments.
Prior to joining the Sault Tribe Health Division, Plummer worked at MyMichigan Health where she treated more than 200 patients throughout the Upper Peninsula and northern Michigan.
“I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with Teresa during my career as a medical social worker helping patients overcome addiction, and I’ve seen firsthand the dedication and attentive care she provides to her patients,” said Chairman Lowes. “We are very fortunate to have her lead addiction treatment on behalf of the Sault Tribe Health Division.”
The Naandwejgegamig is located at 2861 Ashmun St. in Sault Ste. Marie. It will be open Monday-Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Patients seeking addiction treatment should call 906-635-8877 to schedule an appointment. All forms of insurance are accepted, and no one seeking treatment will be turned away based on their insurance or lack thereof.
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