Reading Hospital was designated by the PA Department of Human Services as an Opioid Use Disorder Center of Excellence in 2016.

Centers of Excellence offer team-based services focused on the “whole person” – with the explicit goal of integrating behavioral health with primary care. Patients of these centers:

  • Have an opioid-related substance abuse use disorder
  • May have co-occurring behavioral and physical health conditions
  • Need help to navigate the care system
  • Need guidance to stay engaged in treatment to avoid relapsing

What services does the Center of Excellence provide?

Center of Excellence Care Coordinators connect individuals to medical and treatment services, including substance abuse, mental health, primary care, and medication-assisted treatment for addiction, pain management, dental, eye care, etc.

The coordinators work closely with the patient to develop a plan to resolve unmet social needs, such as housing, childcare, educational/vocational skills, employment, transportation, clothing and food, health insurance, and recovery-friendly recreation and activities.

Our Care Management Team can also:

  • Assist in establishing a health recovery support network
  • Provide education, information, and support regarding addiction and recovery to individuals, family members, agencies, and community groups
  • Assist in transitioning patients to their next level of care
  • Assist in re-establishing and improving family and other significant relationships
  • Meet with patients in the community

How do I make a referral?

Call 484-628-5790 (Spanish: 484-628-4984), email COE@towerhealth.org, or complete an online referral form.

What can I do to help?

Everyone in Pennsylvania is able to obtain Narcan without a prescription. Narcan is a reversal agent for an opioid overdose. Narcan blocks the effects of opioids on the brain and restores breathing in two to eight minutes. Berks County residents and businesses can obtain a Narcan kit through The Council on Chemical Abuse free of charge. For more information, visit cocaberks.org. You can help stop an overdose and give first responders a chance to save a neighbor, a friend, or even a loved one.