March 6, 2003
NR-03-001
 
AEGIS BECOMES THE FIRST MAJOR NARCOTIC TREATMENT PROGRAM TO HELP PEOPLE "TAPER OFF" OF METHADONE
Canoga Park, California – Aegis Medical Systems proudly announces its new "Tapering Off" of Methadone Protocol. In contrast to previous protocols for the detoxification of drug abusers for their addiction to illicit drugs, the new protocol targets stable patients who will be offered a “step-up” program which relies on counseling rather than medications (e.g., methadone).

Dr. George Girgis, Chief Medical Director, stated: “We are proud to be the first major provider to render such an important service, offering hope to many of our qualified patients by facilitating their return to a normal and productive life. We estimate that 10% of Aegis’ many thousands of patients qualify and should be completely “tapered off” of methadone in the next few years. Hopefully, the new program will set an example to other providers in the NTP industry as well as serve as a needed model to the majority of opioid addicts (over 90%) who have been declining methadone treatment over the last thirty years.”

Aegis Medical Systems, Inc., operates one of the largest chains of narcotic treatment programs in the nation. Headquartered in Canoga Park California, Aegis has 26 clinics throughout the state serving over 5,500 patients per day. For the last six years, Aegis has focused its efforts on raising clinical standards and regulatory compliance. Since 2000, Aegis has allocated significant resources to the training of its 300 employees, and to the development of new and more effective treatment policies, protocols and procedures, as well as expanded its Scope of Practice to address the various medical, mental and socio-economic needs of its patients. 

Aegis is also supporting the successful recover of its patients through its Patient Advocacy and Advisory Group (PAAG), Keys To Recovery (K2R) support groups, as well as commissioned offices for an Ombudsman, General Counsel, and Legislative Analyst (Jim Gonzalez & Associates). Additionally, Aegis has participated in pharmaceutical and behavioral research studies with other leading institutions (e.g., NIDA, Johnson & Johnson, Bayer, Rand Corporation, Friends Research, etc.) 

The Aegis Family of Corporations includes Aegis Medical Systems, Inc., Aegis Institute, Inc. (a non-profit organization), and Nationwide Medical Group, Inc. (a professional corporation).


Contact Persons

Priscilla Shrader, Executive Assistant
Aegis Medical Systems, Inc.
(818) 206-0360

Dr. George Girgis, Chief Medical Director
Aegis Medical Systems, Inc.
(616) 861-9967

 

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