Hospitals across Dane County continue to see an increase in individuals seeking addiction treatment, according to The Cap Times. UnityPoint Health-Meriter saw 200 patients in their walk-in clinic during 2023, 272 patients in 2024 and have so far seen 214 patients this year. The hospital expects the final number for 2025 to be the largest yet, according to the Cap Times.
This situation is unfolding as the only detox program in Dane County, Tellurian Behavioral Health, potentially faces closure due to financing issues, according to WMTV15 News. The Dane County Health and Human Needs Committee met with Tellurian and county officials on the topic of a possible shutdown as Tullurian lost over $750,000 last year to the detox program, according to WMTV15 News.
This puts potential pressure on three of Madison’s hospitals and law enforcement, according to Madison Recovery Center’s CEO and co-founder, Jack McKenzie. Madison Recovery Center is a local initiative that provides several services to those facing alcohol or drug addiction, according to their website.
“The first step for someone that’s coming from active addiction into treatment is they need to be medically detoxed,” McKenzie said. “The local ERs aren’t set up to do detox without overwhelming their systems.”
According to McKenzie, he observed a trend where access to treatment is going in the wrong direction, with Tellurian potentially closing and people seeking rehab having to rely on hospitals. Additionally, when someone comes into the ER needing treatment, as a result of a legal issue or arrest, police officers must accompany the person the entire time, which takes officers away from their other duties, McKenzie said.
For those seeking treatment, Madison Recovery Center provides a two part treatment, which includes dealing with the addiction and then remaining sober after, according to McKenzie. Several students have completed their treatment and Madison Recovery Center hopes to connect further with the university and its students in need, according to McKenzie.
“There’s a real culture around heavy binge drinking here in Wisconsin and at the University of Wisconsin,” McKenzie said. “For the people that can’t seem to get out of that cycle and really feel like they need some help with their drinking or drug use, please reach out we’re here to help.” Despite these trends, McKenzie said he is encouraged by how many young adults and college students are choosing not to drink or engage with other substances.
To connect with Madison Recovery Center about seeking alcohol or drug rehab, you can speak with one of their professionals by calling 855-303-1521.
