Newport, Ore.—Samaritan Health Services has opened the new Samaritan Treatment & Recovery Services facility, the first substance use disorder (SUD) residential treatment center in Lincoln County and a critical step forward in expanding access to behavioral health services in the region. "This facility is a game-changer for a community that has needed expanded treatment capacity for nearly a decade," Governor Tina Kotek said. "Since 2016, local leaders have been calling for stronger support in addressing behavioral health needs in the area. Now, that call is being answered — and it will save lives. Let’s keep going." The new 16-bed inpatient and outpatient treatment center, located at 5840 NW Biggs Street in Newport was funded in part by a $2.95 million investment from Oregon Health Authority’s Behavioral Health Investments program. With the new facility, Samaritan Pacific Health Services plans to assess hundreds of individuals annually for substance use disorders, provide case management and recovery support, and help people secure stable housing. On-site staff will include a nurse, drug counselors, peer support specialists and care coordinators who connect patients with wrap-around services. "This project fills a long-standing gap in our region's behavioral health infrastructure," said Ebony Clarke, behavioral health director at Oregon Health Authority (OHA)."It’s a transformative investment in recovery, stability and community health." At the Oct. 20 ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by the Greater Newport Area Chamber of Commerce, community members and project partners participated in guided tours of the facility. Aimee Thompson, Pacific Communities Health District board member and past chair and Dr. David Simmons, Medical Director, Samaritan & Recovery Services speak at the ceremony. “Health care transformation doesn’t happen in isolation,” said Samaritan Health Services President Marty Cahill. “It takes people and organizations — public, private, philanthropic and governmental — working side by side, united by a shared goal to make care more accessible and more human. Every square foot of this facility tells a story of community partnership.” Residents can get a referral from a doctor or may inquire for treatment on their own, though they must meet medical criteria. The facility will open for services on Oct. 27.