MINNEAPOLIS — In the wake of the sudden closure of Kyros, one of Minnesota's largest providers of peer recovery support services, nearly 30 nonprofit organizations throughout the state are stepping in to ensure that those affected continue to receive crucial support.
Kyros, in partnership with Refocus Recovery, had been providing peer recovery services to people dealing with substance use disorders until it abruptly shut down its Minneapolis headquarters yesterday, terminating both employees and contractors.
The closure follows an extensive year-long investigation by KARE 11 that revealed Medicaid billing irregularities involving the company and Refocus Recovery – an affiliated nonprofit.
For months, Refocus Recovery and Kyros have been under state and federal fraud investigations.
On September 6, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), citing “a credible allegation of fraud” stopped payments to Refocus Recovery.
It’s not known exactly how many individuals Refocus and Kyros provided peer services to, but it’s believed to be more than a thousand across the state.
Peer recovery support is an evidence-based service that offers non-clinical assistance to individuals seeking to overcome or maintain recovery from substance use disorders. Services include one-on-one coaching from Certified Peer Recovery Specialists (CPRS), virtual and phone-based support, group meetings, and recovery-friendly social activities.
Grassroots organizations across Minnesota are actively working to reconnect former Kyros clients with these vital services. Many of these organizations are also recruiting CPRS workers to fill the gap left by Kyros' closure.
The Minnesota Alliance of Recovery Community Organizations (MARCO) has compiled a comprehensive list of recovery organizations, their services, and employment opportunities for CPRS workers. The list is being updated in real-time, according to MARCO Executive Director Wendy Jones, and is available to anyone seeking help or job placement.
MARCO is also collaborating with other organizations to find long-term solutions to the service gaps created by Kyros' closure.
The timing of Kyros’ shutdown coincides with National Recovery Month, a period dedicated to increasing awareness about substance use recovery and reducing stigma.
State and Federal investigations of Kyros and Refocus Recovery continue.
