As the nation grapples with an unprecedented opioid epidemic, Acadia Healthcare’s network of Comprehensive Treatment Centers (CTCs) is demonstrating remarkable success in patient recovery. The Franklin, Tennessee-based company, established in 2005, has emerged as a leader in medication-assisted treatment (MAT), with data showing that 80% of their CTC patients remain opioid-free after six months—significantly outperforming the national average of 45%.
Operating 165 CTCs across 33 states, Acadia Healthcare has built the largest network of specialized opioid treatment facilities in the United States. These centers combine FDA-approved medications with counseling and other support services in voluntary programs designed to provide comprehensive care for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder.
“We take our responsibility to patients and communities extremely seriously,” states Chris Hunter, CEO of Acadia Healthcare. “Our evidence-based approach combines FDA-approved medication with counseling and patient support services, which has proven to be the most effective way to save lives and reduce relapse risk.”
The success of Acadia’s CTC programs is reflected in recent quality metrics. The company achieved scores above 99% across all 13 dimensions measured by CARF International, a leading accreditation body for behavioral health facilities. Additionally, patient satisfaction surveys from the most recent quarter indicate that 9 out of 10 CTC patients would recommend Acadia’s programs to others.
Key components of Acadia’s treatment approach include:
- Medication-assisted treatment using FDA-approved medications
- Individual and group counseling services
- Comprehensive behavioral health support
- Care coordination with community providers
- Ongoing recovery support
The company’s treatment centers employ over 1,200 counselors and counseling supervisors, supported by nearly 100 peer support specialists, case managers, and community liaisons. This multidisciplinary approach ensures patients receive comprehensive care addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
Since 2021, Acadia has increased its CTC staff by more than 20%, while reducing annual frontline staff turnover by 13%. This investment in workforce stability contributes to consistent care delivery and improved patient outcomes.
Quality assurance remains a priority across all facilities. Each CTC undergoes:
- Regular state and federal inspections
- CARF accreditation reviews
- Internal quality monitoring
- Ongoing staff training and development
- Compliance oversight
The effectiveness of Acadia’s treatment programs is particularly significant given current national statistics. According to recent data, approximately 100,000 Americans die annually from drug-involved overdoses, with 75% of these deaths involving opioids. Yet only one in five individuals with opioid use disorder receives evidence-based medication-assisted treatment.
Patient testimonials highlight the program’s impact: “When I started coming to [Acadia’s opioid treatment center]…quite frankly, I wasn’t sure if I even wanted to continue to live. This program has given me the support I needed for necessary realizations and long-time needed action for change,” shares one patient.
Looking ahead, Acadia Healthcare continues to expand access to life-saving treatment through new clinic openings, mobile treatment vans, telehealth services, and technology improvements to streamline the patient experience. The company maintains a 24/7/365 patient engagement and intake team, typically offering same or next-day admissions for prospective patients seeking treatment.
From its beginnings in Franklin, Tennessee, Acadia Healthcare has grown into a vital resource in America’s fight against opioid addiction. Through evidence-based treatment protocols, comprehensive support services, and a commitment to quality care, the company continues to make significant strides in helping individuals achieve and maintain recovery.
