News

Bridge program provides peer support in substance abuse cases

By Lightning Reports, Published: October 28, 2025

Hope Coalition in partnership with UNC Health Pardee is introducing a new Hospital Bridge Program designed to provide immediate peer support and transitional assistance to individuals who have experienced an overdose or other substance-use related complications.

Substance Use Navigators, who are all North Carolina Certified Peer Recovery Specialists, will provide support and connect patients to a network of recovery services, aiming for a smooth transition from the hospital to ongoing treatment and recovery support.

The program offers peer support through service coordination with Hope Coalition in the Psychiatric and Addictions Therapeutic Healing Services (PATHS) at Pardee, which includes referrals to medication assisted treatment, certified recovery housing, meetings, wrap-around services, and ongoing transitional support, said Julie Huneycutt, executive director of Hope Coalition.

Bridget Fluech, administrative directo of Behavioral Health & Emergency Medicine at Pardee, noted that the program aims to engage patients in treatment and show them recovery is possible by providing compassionate peer support during a crisis. Future plans include expansion to embed peers in the Emergency Department. For more details, contact Julie Huneycutt at jhuneycutt@elementsofhope.org.