Closed hospital in Ashland area to become drug-treatment center

Addiction Recovery Care bought part of the hospital campus from Bon Secours Mercy Health, which closed it in April 2020. ARC announced its plan in December, saying it would create 250 local jobs.

Gov. Andy Beshear said in an ARC news release, “My faith tells me that second chances are possible. This initiative is going to ensure second chances for deserving Kentuckians struggling with addiction who are ready to transform their lives and show up for themselves, their families and their communities.”

ARC President Tim Robinson said, “For many of our fellow Kentuckians, addiction and substance use continue to be a daily challenge. ARC remains committed to helping more of these men and women reach long-term recovery and showing them the many opportunities that await them in their next chapter of life.”

ARC says it operates more than 30 programs in 21 Kentucky counties. It uses a “Crisis to Career model” that combines drug treatment with job training.

State Sen. Robin Webb, D-Grayson, said, “As we all know, substance abuse has taken a heavy toll on individuals and families in northeastern Kentucky. Addiction Recovery Care is a reputable treatment provider that brings jobs and experience to help those struggling with addiction.”

Rep. Danny Bentley, R-Russell, said “This a great day for our community This announcement brings the promise of a second chance not only for a facility that has served generations of our people, but also for those who will find recovery within its walls. It will also create a lot of good jobs.”

Bentley is shepherding a bill in the legislature that would allow ARC to use the state’s new Rural Hospital Loan Program.