A Spotlight PA/KHN investigation shows the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs uses an inherently flawed oversight system that does little to ensure high-quality or effective care. · Spotlight PA

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Fundamental Flaws

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Ian Kalinowski’s brother, Adam, died by suicide in 2014 while he was a client at a treatment center run by Addiction Specialists Inc., in Fayette County. An Allegheny County judge later said the business, two of its owners, and an ASI physician were negligent in caring for Adam.

Addiction treatment providers in Pennsylvania face little state scrutiny despite harm to clients

by Aneri Pattani of KHN and Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA

A Spotlight PA/KHN investigation shows the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs uses an inherently flawed oversight system that does little to ensure high-quality or effective care.

New Journeys in Recovery faces criminal charges for allegedly bribing recovery homes for referrals and forcing patients into substandard care, which prompted renewed calls from state lawmakers to strengthen oversight.

WATCH: A free panel on how Pennsylvania can keep people in addiction recovery safe

by Spotlight PA Staff

New Journeys in Recovery and its owner, Lawrence Gallegher, are now charged with Medicaid fraud.

Lawmakers renew call for stronger addiction treatment oversight as two Pa. providers charged

by Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA

Rep. Mark Gillen (R., Berks) wants to give the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs the power to fine licensed addiction treatment facilities for violating state rules.

Pa. can’t fine addiction treatment facilities that break rules. Some lawmakers want to change that.

by Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA

The amount of feedback, as well as the coronavirus pandemic, contributed to the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs missing a June 2020 deadline to implement the licensing program, Secretary Jennifer Smith said during a February budget hearing.

Oversight of Pa. recovery homes stalls as officials, advocates disagree on best approach

by Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA

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