Waldorf, Md. – Recovery Centers of America (RCA) Capital Region, a leading Maryland-based substance use disorder treatment facility located conveniently within an hour’s reach of Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia, has announced Carolyn Thangawng, MD, MPH, FASAM, as its new medical director. Dr. Thangawng, with her extensive experience in addiction medicine, public health, and research, will steer the facility’s medical department towards providing patient-focused, evidence-based treatment services, and will play a crucial role in the expansion of RCA’s treatment programs.
Fredericka Ford, the chief executive officer of RCA Capital Region, expressed enthusiasm about Dr. Thangawng’s appointment, noting her “extensive background in addiction medicine, public health, and research” as key to her invaluable addition to the team. Ford highlighted Dr. Thangawng’s over ten years of experience in clinical practice and education, emphasizing how her expertise will deepen the organization’s capacity and advance its mission to save lives.
Before her new role, Dr. Thangawng was associated with the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine as an addiction medicine faculty member, reflecting her commitment to public health and aiding marginalized populations. Her recent position as a medical director at YesCare’s pre-trial opioid treatment programs in Baltimore showcases her instrumental efforts in developing and expanding jail and prison-based opioid treatment initiatives under the State Opioid Use Disorder Examination and Treatment Act of 2019.
Dr. Thangawng’s career began with a master’s degree in psychology, focusing on memory and brain function research using neuroimaging techniques. Her work as a psychometrician included studies on ADHD and autism. Completing an addiction medicine fellowship at Caron Treatment Centers/Tower Health, she later served as medical director at Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge, further solidifying her expertise and dedication to addiction treatment.
Expressing her honor in joining RCA Capital Region, Dr. Thangawng said, “I am deeply honored to join the dedicated staff at RCA Capital Region in a role that not only aligns with my passion for public health and public policy but also with my commitment to evidence-based addiction treatment.” She looks forward to leading a high-performing team focused on patient and family well-being.
Dr. Thangawng’s academic credentials include an M.D. from the University of Vermont and a completion of the preventive medicine and public health residency at the University of Maryland Baltimore, where she earned an MPH in epidemiology.
RCA Capital Region, acclaimed for its comprehensive approach to addiction treatment, offers a wide range of services from medically monitored detox to outpatient care, including telehealth options. Accredited by the Joint Commission and the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers, it has been recognized by Newsweek as a “Best U.S. Addiction Treatment Facility in Maryland” for four consecutive years.
For those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, RCA offers 24/7 assistance. More information about RCA Capital Region and its programs can be found on their website.
