The Transformative Power of a Primary Care Relationship

Starting with unaddressed health concerns

Imagine a residential recovery setting where clients feel at ease and secure discussing their substance use concerns with their primary care physician – knowing they are speaking to a medical professional who is trained and well-versed in addiction. It’s not unusual to find that clients in residential recovery have neglected their general health – including missing essential screenings like colonoscopies, Pap smears, and vaccinations. This complexity adds an additional layer of responsibility to the primary care provider’s role. They must assess each client’s specific health requirements and make appropriate referrals to ensure comprehensive care. “So, you can see the complexity of my challenge at our LESC Clinic,” LESC Nurse Practitioner, Esther Ndukwe said. “I have to look at what they need, then refer them out.”

Building a residential primary care clinic founded on care and compassion

The LESC Residential Primary Care Clinic’s foundation is built on the strong and compassionate relationships formed with the clients. Esther takes pride in the fact that she has played an integral role in developing and shaping the Residential Primary Care Clinic at LESC since its inception in 2007.  “It took me six months to develop our clinic into what it is today,” she explained. “There was nothing given to me. This is a high-risk population, and it has taken a lot of creativity to successfully address all of the physical, emotional, and practical needs of our clients.” But Esther came to LESC with the clinical and administrative skills – including a background helping to run an emergency room, surgical intensive care unit, medical intensive care unit, cardiac unit, and HIV pediatric unit. 

Supporting clients with complex needs

By being vigilant and proactive, primary care providers like Esther can intervene early, potentially preventing the progression of a wide range of debilitating diseases. “In residential care, some of our clients arrive with multiple comorbidities,” Ester explained. “I’ve come across asthma, diabetes, bilateral prostate hypertrophy, neuropathy, and hypertension through the roof. For most of these clients, nobody managed these conditions.”

Esther goes above and beyond to ensure continuity of care for her clients. She ensures they receive their three-month medication refills and helps them establish connections with other physicians before they leave the residential facility. This dedication prevents any interruption in medication adherence, supporting clients in maintaining their health stability. Esther recognizes that setbacks, such as relapses, can occur, and she remains committed to helping clients navigate these challenges and get back on track with their residential primary care.

The rewards of supporting resilient recovery

Esther’s work as a primary care provider at LESC is essential in facilitating early intervention, treatment, and long-term recovery. She shares stories of former clients who have experienced setbacks and returned to the clinic, clients lost to overdose, and others who have demonstrated remarkable resilience in their recovery journeys. Esther proudly recounts the success stories of individuals who have gone on to pursue careers as lawyers, pastors, and caretakers for children. “Think about what it means to trust somebody in recovery with your kids. You even take that person on vacation with your family, so they too have a chance to enjoy their life,” Esther added. 

For Esther, the most rewarding aspect of her work in the Residential Primary Care Clinic is witnessing clients reclaim their health, rebuild relationships, restore their families, and rediscover their sense of purpose. “Most of my clients are very appreciative,” Esther explained. “They tell me nobody has ever cared for them this way before.” Former clients frequently visit her, sharing their positive reports and the milestones they have achieved. These are the stories that demonstrate the transformative power of a primary care relationship in a residential recovery setting and the lasting impact it has on LESC clients’ lives.