Spectrum Health Systems, Inc., a longtime not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing a comprehensive continuum of addiction treatment throughout Massachusetts, announced today the appointment of Sharif Nankoe as Medical Director for its new statewide program serving offenders with opioid use disorders in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Correction (MADOC).
Board certified in family and addiction medicine, Dr. Nankoe will be responsible for directing a comprehensive continuum of care for offenders, while overseeing a talented medical team. Additionally, he will lend his expertise to training staff about substance use disorders and the unique challenges faced by offenders in obtaining treatment while incarcerated and remaining in recovery following release.
“We are very fortunate to have Dr. Nankoe leading this groundbreaking initiative,” said Dr. Jeffrey Baxter, Spectrum’s Chief Medical Officer. “The Mass. DOC contract is a natural extension of the work we have been doing with the Department for years. The breadth of this new undertaking requires someone experienced in providing medications for opioid use disorders treatment in correctional settings. We’re excited to see how he will bring his talents and expertise to this important new role.”
Dr. Nankoe has extensive experience with evidence-based addiction treatment in corrections, having previously served as Medical Director for opioid use disorder treatment programs for the Vermont Department of Corrections, as well as for BAART programs in St. Johnsbury and Newport, Vermont. He also brings his skills as a consultant and educator from his time as an Assistant Professor at the University of Vermont College of Medicine.
“This is an exciting opportunity and a crucial new program for the state,” Nankoe said. “Offenders often face so many unnecessary barriers to treatment, both in and out of prison. This new initiative not only dramatically expands access to treatment within state prisons but will also help offenders continue to receive the care they need once they’re released, at a time when they’re at highest risk of relapse. I’m so pleased to be a part of programming that will have a significant impact in reducing relapse and recidivism for offenders diagnosed with opioid use disorders.”
Spectrum’s leadership continues to pursue new program development opportunities across the country and welcomes inquiries from interested parties seeking effective treatment solutions. To learn more about Spectrum’s correctional treatment programs, visit www.spectrumcorrections.org or call 1-508-792-5400. For information about career openings at Spectrum, please visit our careers page.
About Spectrum Health Systems
Based in Worcester, Mass. and founded in 1969, Spectrum Health Systems, Inc. is a private, nonprofit substance abuse and mental health treatment provider. Spectrum offers the largest and most complete continuum of addiction treatment in New England — including inpatient detoxification, residential rehabilitation, outpatient services, medication-assisted treatment and peer recovery support. Spectrum also offers inpatient detoxification and residential treatment for commercially insured and private pay clients through its subsidiary, The New England Recovery Center.
