#United States #St. Paul #Substance Use #Health Disparities #Kai Shin Clinic

Alarming Health Disparities in Minnesota Recovery Community

A recent initiative by the Kai Shin Clinic has unveiled staggering health disparities affecting individuals living with substance use disorders in Minnesota. As part of their bloodwork program, the clinic conducted extensive testing and published their findings in September, revealing alarmingly high rates of both infectious diseases and chronic illnesses amongst this population.

The most striking statistics collected indicate that:

• - Hepatitis C is present in 14.3% of patients—an eye-popping 16 times higher than the national average of 0.9%.
• - The prevalence of Syphilis stands at 8.3%, marking over 138 times the national average of 0.06%.
• - The incidence of HIV is found at 1.7%, nearly 5 times the national average of 0.36%.
• - Newly diagnosed Diabetes cases are at 11.5%, which is almost 20 times well above the 0.59% national rate.

These figures underscore the critical need for comprehensive approaches to addiction medicine, which should integrate medical testing alongside traditional counseling methods. “These numbers are staggering, and they reflect the hidden health crisis impacting people living with addiction and those early in recovery,” stated Dr. Alana Sasaki, CEO of Kai Shin Clinic. She emphasized that recovery involves much more than just sobriety; it requires a holistic approach focusing on overall health and wellness.

At the Kai Shin Clinic, addiction medicine goes beyond mere talk therapy. The clinic has established a gold-standard approach that includes routine bloodwork through convenient services such as mobile phlebotomy and on-site testing. Quick turnaround times allow for early detection and treatment of critical health conditions, ensuring patients receive timely medical interventions alongside behavioral and substance use treatments. This innovative strategy addresses systemic barriers that can delay crucial care, ultimately fostering a healthier recovery environment.

Dr. Sasaki further elaborated, “Addiction medicine means treating substance use disorders as complex medical conditions. We include physician evaluations, diagnostic bloodwork, and evidence-based medications to address co-occurring health concerns. Early identification through accessible testing allows us to connect individuals with appropriate treatment sooner.”

Kai Shin Clinic stands at the forefront of the fight against health disparities in Minnesota's recovery community. Their commitment to compassionate care is reflected in their dedication to whole-person recovery, which encompasses medical, psychological, and communal support. This comprehensive model is poised to bridge substantial health gaps and instigate significant change in the outcomes for those affected by substance use disorders.

To explore more about Kai Shin Clinic’s initiatives and to schedule an assessment, visit www.kaishinclinic.com/bloodwork.

About Kai Shin Clinic

Founded with the aim of delivering integrated care to individuals struggling with substance use disorders, mental health challenges, and general health concerns, the Kai Shin Clinic emphasizes the importance of reducing barriers to access while focusing on the wellness of the whole individual. The clinic serves as an essential support system for communities across Minnesota, striving to create positive health outcomes for its patients.