U.S. Drug Czar Praises 'First Light' in Visit
New name for HCHD's drug-intervention program reflects its goal

 

Walters, center, is joined by David S. Lopez, Interim President and CEO, (R) and Terry Cunningham, Ben Taub Administrator during his visit in March.

The U.S. drug czar praised HCHD's drug intervention and treatment program in a recent visit to Ben Taub, calling it essential in the nation's war on drugs.

The new program began March 29 under a new easier name – First Light. It formerly was known as SBIRT (Screening Brief Intervention Referral and Treatment).

“Our goal is to create a recession and depression in the business of illegal drugs,” said John Walters, U.S. Director of National Drug Control Policy. “We've always been focused on reducing the supply, but not much on reducing demand.”

Walters met March 17 at Ben Taub with key people in charge of First Light and called the program essential to reducing the demands for illegal drugs.

The new program promotes early screening and brief intervention for patients who are substance abusers, and raises public awareness of the importance of these initiatives. Other agencies are collaborating to help patients needing a longer intervention, said Sara Dorsey, Director of Social Work and Clinical Case Management.

The Hospital District is the first in Texas to receive a $10.5 million grant for the program. Texas is one of seven states to receive grants.

“Walters emphasized the importance of stopping initiation of drug use, treating those already affected and interrupting supply,” said Dr. Katie McQueen, Medical Director for First Light.

The program began at Ben Taub, Strawberry Health Center and the Southside School-based Health Center. It will be used in Ben Taub's Emergency Center, its inpatient units and selected specialty clinics. The program eventually will open in three other community health centers (MLK, Casa de Amigos and Aldine) and two school-based clinics.