Monarch COVID-19 Frontline Hero: CCBHC Nurse Case Manager Debra Miller

CCBHC Nurse Case Manager Debra Miller

Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Director of Integrated Care Monique Lucas BSN, RN, CCM, CCCTM, believes every member of her staff qualifies for the title “frontline hero” during the COVID-19 pandemic, but is making special mention of Nurse Case Manager Debra Miller, RN.

As the CCBHC nurse case manager, Miller is responsible for administering the injections as part of the medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program, which is the use of medications in combination with counseling and behavioral health therapies effective against opioid use disorder. Miller has taken her responsibilities outdoors, to keep staff and people we support safe. When Miller administers the MAT injections, she does so in the CCBHC parking lot, adhering to social distancing and personal protective equipment guidelines.

“Throughout the pandemic, Debbie has been a breath of fresh air. A team player, she helps in any capacity possible to assist our staff and the people we support,” Lucas explained. “Unfortunately, even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the opioid crisis continues to grow in Stanly County. Social distancing and stay-at-home orders make it more difficult for people fighting substance use disorders. Through it all, Debbie is making sure safeguards are in place to continue making sure the people we support will receive the services they need.”

Lucas explained that social distancing and stay-at-home orders have forced the CCBHC team to rely on virtual communication to stay connected and informed. “As a community team, we have been in communication daily, and even though many of us have not seen each other, we still feel very connected,” she noted. “We don’t know what is on the horizon, but I feel my team is informed and prepared for future, possible changes.”