Addiction, particularly for those using opioids, has become a significant problem during the coronavirus pandemic, according to Spectrum Health Systems President and CEO, Kurt Isaacson..

"This coronavirus, the epidemic, is the worst possible thing for people with an addiction disorder," Isaacson said.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health [DPH] reported 112 confirmed opioid-related deaths in the first quarter of 2020, and the numbers only get more grim.

The DPH is predicting another 393 deaths in quarter two, and a major factor for Isaacson is coronavirus keeping people their homes. 

Isaacson said, "When you're actually going into the office to work, people notice if you're intoxicated on your way into work or you're missing work. It's an obvious red flag that something is going on."

In hopes of combating this problem, Spectrum Health Systems launched a new facility in Great Barrington, which is now one of more than a dozen locations across Massachusetts.

But this is not growth they necessarily want.

Isaacson said,"It is sad we continue to expand, but it's also a really good thing we're providing easy access to people across the state."

The state's 1,952 opioid-related deaths in 2019 is in fact the lowest since 2015 (1,738 deaths).

But it's still not enough says Isaacson.  And if you need help, he says not to wait around:

"Look on our website and see when we have open admissions. You can walk in, get evaluated, and get treatment and medication on the same day. Which is very unusual for this industry," Isaacson said.

Spectrum Health says their new Western Mass facility helps them get closer to their goal of treating 500,00 people by 2025.​