In August 2020, Pinnacle Treatment Centers, a leading provider of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services, announced the acquisition of HealthQwest, a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) provider based in Georgia. This strategic move marked Pinnacle’s first entry into the Georgia market and solidified its commitment to expanding access to high-quality, evidence-based addiction treatment across the United States. While financial details of the transaction were not disclosed, the partnership between Pinnacle and HealthQwest is expected to make a lasting impact on communities throughout Georgia that have been hit hard by the opioid epidemic.
Who Is Pinnacle Treatment Centers
Headquartered in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is one of the most recognized names in addiction treatment nationwide. Serving nearly 31,000 patients per day, Pinnacle operates across multiple states including California, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and now Georgia. With a network of 115 community-based facilities, Pinnacle offers a full continuum of care that ranges from medically monitored detoxification and inpatient services to outpatient therapy and medication-assisted treatment.
The organization’s model is built around accessibility, affordability, and evidence-based care. By accepting Medicaid, Medicare, commercial insurance, and private payment, Pinnacle ensures that individuals from all walks of life have the opportunity to access treatment. Its rapid growth across the country underscores its mission to address the ongoing substance use crisis in both urban and rural communities.
A Closer Look at HealthQwest
HealthQwest, founded in 2008, has been a cornerstone of medication-assisted treatment in Georgia. With five outpatient treatment centers spread across the state, the organization serves approximately 1,100 patients daily. As a licensed narcotic treatment program (NTP), HealthQwest specializes in MAT services, which combine FDA-approved medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone with counseling and behavioral therapies. This approach is widely recognized as one of the most effective methods for treating opioid use disorder.
In addition to MAT, HealthQwest also provides medical withdrawal services and comprehensive support for patients seeking recovery. Like Pinnacle, the organization accepts Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, and self-pay, making treatment accessible to a broad population. Its patient-first philosophy has helped thousands of individuals take critical steps toward lasting recovery.
Why the Acquisition Matters
The opioid epidemic continues to be one of the most pressing public health challenges in the United States, and Georgia is no exception. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), opioid-related overdose deaths have surged in the state in recent years. Communities in Georgia are in urgent need of accessible, effective treatment options, and the acquisition of HealthQwest by Pinnacle Treatment Centers comes at a pivotal time.
By joining forces, Pinnacle and HealthQwest will be able to leverage their combined expertise, resources, and networks to expand treatment availability and improve outcomes for patients. The partnership also strengthens Pinnacle’s position as a national leader in addiction care, while allowing HealthQwest to benefit from the infrastructure, innovation, and operational support of a larger organization.
Leadership Transitions and Continuity
One important aspect of the acquisition is Pinnacle’s decision to preserve HealthQwest’s established name and brand identity. By retaining the HealthQwest name, Pinnacle demonstrates its respect for the organization’s strong reputation and local trust within Georgia communities.
Leadership continuity also plays a role in ensuring a smooth transition. Gina Carr, former co-owner of HealthQwest, will remain on staff as Pinnacle’s lead pharmacist. Her expertise and long-standing commitment to patient care will be valuable in maintaining quality standards across the organization’s Georgia locations. Additionally, Pamela Marfell, who previously served as CEO, administrator, and co-owner of HealthQwest, will take on a consulting role with Pinnacle. This arrangement allows HealthQwest to maintain strong leadership ties while benefiting from Pinnacle’s broader strategic direction.
The Growth of Medication-Assisted Treatment
The acquisition also highlights the increasing importance of medication-assisted treatment in addressing the opioid epidemic. MAT has gained wide acceptance in the medical community as the gold standard for treating opioid use disorder, with numerous studies showing that it reduces the risk of overdose, improves retention in treatment, and supports long-term recovery.
By expanding its MAT capabilities in Georgia through HealthQwest, Pinnacle Treatment Centers reinforces its commitment to evidence-based care. This expansion ensures that more individuals struggling with opioid addiction will have access to life-saving treatment and support services.
Meeting Patients Where They Are
One of Pinnacle’s guiding principles is meeting patients where they are in their recovery journey. The acquisition of HealthQwest allows Pinnacle to bring this philosophy to more communities across Georgia. Patients who may have previously struggled to access treatment due to limited availability or financial barriers will now have more opportunities to receive care that is affordable, accessible, and tailored to their needs.
Additionally, both Pinnacle and HealthQwest emphasize holistic care that extends beyond medication. Counseling, behavioral therapy, peer support, and family involvement are integrated into treatment plans to address the physical, emotional, and social aspects of recovery. This comprehensive approach helps patients not only achieve sobriety but also rebuild their lives.
Looking Ahead
The acquisition of HealthQwest marks just the beginning of Pinnacle Treatment Centers’ journey in Georgia. With a strong foundation of five outpatient centers and experienced leadership, Pinnacle is well-positioned to expand further in the state. Future growth could include additional facilities, expanded service offerings, and deeper community partnerships.
As the nation continues to grapple with the opioid crisis, organizations like Pinnacle Treatment Centers play a critical role in shaping the future of addiction treatment. By investing in high-quality care and expanding into new markets, Pinnacle demonstrates a long-term commitment to supporting individuals and families affected by substance use disorder.
Conclusion
Pinnacle Treatment Centers’ acquisition of HealthQwest is a milestone in the ongoing effort to combat the opioid epidemic in Georgia and beyond. By combining Pinnacle’s national expertise with HealthQwest’s local impact, the partnership has the potential to significantly expand access to evidence-based treatment for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder.
With leadership continuity, a shared commitment to patient-centered care, and an emphasis on medication-assisted treatment, the acquisition represents a powerful step forward in the fight against addiction. For the thousands of individuals and families affected by substance use in Georgia, the collaboration between Pinnacle and HealthQwest offers renewed hope for recovery and healing.
