NCDHHS and Morse Clinics Launch North Carolina’s First Mobile Opioid Treatment Program Unit
North Carolina is taking a bold step forward in the fight against opioid addiction. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), in partnership with Morse Clinics, is unveiling the state’s first Mobile Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) unit—a milestone in expanding access to life-saving care.
Breaking Down Barriers to Recovery
Mobile OTPs reduce barriers to participation in treatment by making it easier for those seeking help to move into and maintain recovery. Sponsored by Morse Clinics, these mobile units are designed to bring treatment directly to communities, especially those underserved or geographically isolated.
Morse Clinics is dedicated to the treatment of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), offering Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) and counseling services across a wide footprint in North Carolina. Their clinics serve Wake, Chatham, Johnston, Halifax, Granville, Franklin, Warren, Northampton, Person, Orange, Randolph, Vance, Harnett, and Durham counties.
A Growing Need for Treatment
NCDHHS is committed to increasing access to medical care and preventing substance use and overdose. Data shows a 25% increase in OTP participation over the past five years, signaling a growing demand for treatment services.
To ensure quality and compliance, NCDHHS—through its State Opioid Treatment Authority (SOTA)—must give preliminary approval to any entity seeking state licensure for an OTP location, including mobile units. Once approved, the application is sent to SAMHSA for federal certification. All OTP programs must have both state licensure and federal certification before treating patients.
More Mobile Units on the Horizon
As many as 10 additional mobile OTPs may be in service by the end of the year. Six of these are being funded by $3.75 million NCDHHS received following Hurricane Helene, which was provided to Vaya Health, the LME/MCO serving western and central North Carolina counties.
Check out B-roll footage of the new mobile OTP unit: Watch the video
About Morse Clinics
Morse Clinics is a leading provider of evidence-based treatment for Opioid Use Disorder in North Carolina. With nine locations across eight counties, Morse Clinics offers compassionate, comprehensive care through MOUD, counseling, and support services tailored to individuals battling heroin, fentanyl, prescription painkillers, and other opioids.
Led by Dr. Eric Morse, a board-certified psychiatrist with deep expertise in addiction medicine, Morse Clinics is committed to expanding access to life-saving care. The launch of North Carolina’s first mobile OTP unit exemplifies their mission to meet patients where they are and break down barriers to recovery.