Wayspring, an organization dedicated to advancing care for substance use disorder, and Aetna Better Health of Illinois have partnered to deliver a new model of recovery care for Illinois Medicaid members, beginning in January 2026. The program serves 9,000 Aetna Better Health of Illinois Medicaid members statewide with a whole-person approach that integrates care for physical, behavioral, and social needs alongside substance use disorder treatment.
Members can access care conveniently through telehealth or soon in-person at the new Chicago-based clinic. The program provides comprehensive outpatient care for substance use disorder, behavioral health, and physical health needs, as well as social support including resource access to housing, food, mobile phones, employment, legal assistance, financial support, and more. Wayspring’s engagement specialists, many of whom are in recovery themselves, are out in the community building relationships face-to-face, visiting shelters and facilities, and making phone calls to meet people where they are and ensure no one is overlooked.
This proactive outreach model is designed for those facing the steepest barriers, such as homelessness, lack of transportation, or food insecurity. According to Carter Paine, Chief Executive Officer of Wayspring, “Too often, people living with substance use disorder face a system that feels out of reach. By combining our whole-person model with Aetna’s deep presence across the state, we’re creating something different—care that feels accessible, builds trust, and helps thousands of people find stability and lasting recovery.”
For Illinois providers, the collaboration brings an added layer of support for patients navigating recovery. Wayspring works together with substance use disorder and behavioral health providers to help patients maintain progress after discharge by addressing social needs and stepping in as an extension of care when needed. Aetna Better Health of Illinois serves over 360,000 Medicaid members in 102 counties.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.rutlandherald.com/news/business/illinois-kicks-off-2026-with-support-that-shows-up-for-substance-use-disorder/article_fba8de0c-f50d-545c-b096-fed4ebf6bb5b.html