How NYC Health + Hospitals is reimagining addiction treatment by integrating it into every facet of care from the ED to primary care to support during pregnancy.
Addiction is often misunderstood, but at NYC Health + Hospitals, treatment is rooted in compassion, community, and care.
On this episode of The Remedy, host Dr. Michael Shen is joined by Dr. Dan Schatz, Medical Director of Addiction Services, and Sasha Ashton, Director of Addiction Services at NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County in Brooklyn. Together, they explore how NYC Health + Hospitals is treating substance use disorder with a comprehensive, approach—whether someone walks into an emergency room, seeks help at a methadone clinic, or connects through community outreach.
They discuss the devastating rise of fentanyl in the drug supply, the role of peer support in recovery, and how stigma continues to prevent many New Yorkers from seeking care. Sasha and Dr. Schatz also talk about the importance of offering flexible, harm-reduction-based treatment options, from walk-in care and bridge clinics to sober social spaces that include dance parties.
The episode also highlights innovative programs that support pregnant and postpartum patients, and the upcoming RISE Center in the South Bronx, which will offer integrated services for families impacted by addiction.
With real-life stories of transformation and a deep understanding of what success in recovery can look like, this conversation offers hope and a powerful reminder that healing starts with respect and trust.
Listen to the full episode now.
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Presented by NYC Health + Hospitals