MPHA Member Spotlight: Groups Recover Together

March 1, 2026

Please share a little bit about the work that Groups Recover Together does.

Groups Recover Together provides outpatient treatment for substance use disorder in Maine and 12 other states, focusing on expanding access to evidence-based care. We are the largest Opioid Health Home provider in Maine, serving nearly 2,000 people statewide. Through 11 offices and telehealth services, we reach rural and underserved communities where treatment access is often limited. Our hybrid care model addresses social determinants of health—including transportation barriers, childcare needs, and geographic isolation—while care coordination connects members to primary care, housing supports, and other services that support long-term recovery and overall health. We accept all major insurances, including MaineCare, and leverage State Opioid Response grant funding to help ensure cost is not a barrier to treatment.

What public health issues is Groups Recover Together focusing on most now and in the coming year, and how has your work impacted the community this year? 

Groups is focused on reducing overdose risk and improving long-term health outcomes for people with substance use disorder. Over the past year, we expanded access to medication for opioid use disorder, including long-acting injectable medications such as Sublocade, which can improve treatment stability and adherence. We are addressing tobacco and nicotine use within our population as people with behavioral health conditions use tobacco at significantly higher rates and experience disproportionate tobacco-related illness and death. Through expanded screening, treatment, and cessation support, our tobacco initiative is now fully integrated into care and has made significant progress helping members reduce or quit nicotine use. We are also piloting “convenience clinics” within our offices to help fill gaps in primary care access in communities experiencing provider shortages.

How can community members and local partners support Groups Recover Together's work?

Community partnerships are essential to improving recovery outcomes and strengthening the public health response to substance use disorder. Healthcare providers and social service organizations can collaborate with Groups through referrals and care coordination, including utilizing our rapid access to treatment for individuals who need timely support. Conversely, Groups relies on community partners for additional wrap-around services and connection for our members -  including recovery housing, childcare and programming, and sometimes more intensive healthcare needs. Community leaders and partners can also engage with our work by serving on our Groups advisory council that helps guide local strategy and ensure services reflect community needs (contact us if interested!). Reducing stigma and sharing information about treatment resources also helps more people access care and sustain recovery.