On Tuesday, the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs highlighted a new $10 million loan repayment program to incentivize professionals to remain in the substance use disorder treatment field.
This program is aimed toward aiding substance use disorder treatment and Single County Authority case management professionals with repaying their qualifying educational loans.
"This is really important because this isn't glamourous work, it's challenging work. We are working with individuals who are often struggling and at low points in their lives," said Fred Oliveros, Administrator, Cambria County Drug and Alcohol Program.
This profession has seen a high rate of turnover and a shortage of professionals. This then puts increased pressure on employees and could make it harder for Pennsylvanians to get the treatment and support they need.
"If we don't have counselors in place, there's no one to provide treatment and we may have a waiting list or extended periods of time in between appointments" said Oliveros.
And getting that help and support could be life changing for someone.
"For individuals struggling with the disease of addiction, treatment and support from substance use disorder professionals can absolutely be the difference between life and death," said Jen Smith, Secretary, Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs.
This loan repayment program also has the goal of keeping professionals in the field so they can continue providing treatment.
"We want individuals to remain in these positions. It helps build a therapeutic relationship when individuals seeking services are able to connect with the same person over and over and over again," said Oliveros.
"It's a win-win for everybody. Patients and the field included if we have these incentives in place," said Oliveros.