CHC Launches Incentive-Based Recovery Program to Confront Vermont’s Overdose Crisis

BOSTON, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Community Health Centers (CHC), a Federally Qualified Health Center serving underserved communities in and around Burlington, Vermont, has selected Q2i’s contingency management (CM) technology to support the implementation and management of an innovative CM program designed to improve recovery outcomes for patients with substance use disorder. 

With fentanyl involved in 93 percent of Vermont’s fatal overdoses in 2024, the urgency to strengthen recovery supports has never been greater. CHC’s CM program uses an evidence-based approach that offers small, tangible rewards—such as gift cards—for achieving positive recovery milestones, including regular counseling attendance and consistently negative drug screenings. Extensive research demonstrates that CM increases engagement in treatment, reduces relapse rates, and promotes sustained recovery.

“Every step forward in recovery is a victory,” said Heather Stein, Chief Medical Officer at CHC. “This program recognizes those steps that often go unnoticed and gives patients an extra boost to keep moving forward.”

The launch comes at a critical moment in Vermont’s fight against the opioid crisis. According to the Vermont Department of Health, the state recorded 183 opioid-related deaths in 2024—a 22 percent decrease from 236 in 2023, marking the lowest total in four years and the second consecutive year of decline. Despite this progress, fentanyl continues to drive the majority of deaths, with cocaine and xylazine involvement on the rise.

CHC’s CM program adds an important recovery-focused tool to Vermont’s broader prevention and treatment efforts. By reinforcing positive behaviors and sustained engagement in care, the program aims to help patients maintain momentum in their recovery journey.

Funded through state grants, participants in the program will receive small, redeemable incentives for meeting individualized recovery goals, attending scheduled therapy sessions, maintaining clean toxicology screenings, and actively participating in recovery planning.

“Contingency Management isn’t just about rewards—it’s about honoring the resilience and determination our patients bring to their recovery,” said Betsy Fowler, Director of Mental Health and Substance Use Services at CHC. “It’s another way we provide whole-person care that integrates primary care, behavioral health, and recovery services for all, regardless of financial means.”

Steve Jenkins, CEO of Q2i, added, “We’re proud to partner with CHC to bring this proven approach to the people of Vermont. When technology and evidence-based practices work hand-in-hand, communities can achieve real, lasting change.”

By combining proven behavioral health strategies with innovative technology, CHC and Q2i are working to expand access, strengthen engagement, and help more Vermonters achieve lasting recovery.

About Q2i

Q2i is a privately held digital health company specializing in evidence-based, innovative solutions. Our technologies enhance clinical care, increase engagement, and improve outcomes. As global leaders in technology-driven Contingency Management solutions, Q2i is driving healthcare innovation. Our division, Contingency Management Innovations (CMI), is the leading developer of AI-powered CM technology, transforming behavior reinforcement and clinical outcomes.

For more information, visit: Q2i.com.

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SOURCE Q2I