Hani Members

Hani Members is Chief Physician Assistant at Greenwich House MMTP. She is a graduate of Touro College School of Health Sciences with 14 years of experience working with individuals with substance use disorders. She specializes in treating individuals with opioid use disorder in the OTP and Correctional Health setting.

What motivated you to become a PA in a recovery program?

I felt I had an opportunity to change, save lives and make a difference . Often, our patients feel they are not treated fairly in other medical settings, due to their substance use history and stigma. Which, makes it important that the care we provide be comprehensive, nonbiased and be a place that serves as a safe haven for them. Somewhere that makes them feel comfortable, normal and accepted.

What brought you to Greenwich House? 

It’s a funny story, I applied for a position in what I thought was a primary care practice, as that was my background and it wasn’t until my interview I realized it was a treatment facility. And here I am now, 14 yrs later doing what I love to do best.

How has being a PA in a recovery program changed or affected you?  

Being a PA in a recovery program has taught me the importance of addiction and how it affects people’s lives. As a result, it has made me become more of an advocate for patient’ rights and to help combat stigma, as much as possible.

What advice do you have for people reluctant to seek help for their SUD? 

Treatment is lifesaving/life changing and although it may be hard at first it’s important to keep going and know that you are not alone. The support of a clinic will help provide the structure needed to help stay focused on your eventual goal of abstinence. You may fall but know you have the support to get back up and try again!

What is one thing people should know about GH and MMTP? 

GH is a comprehensive agency that has valuable resources all across the city . In MMTP I can say we have been able to develop and implement the ability to provide a safe, respectful and inclusive environment to all that are seeking care.

How have your bilingual and cultural skills benefitted your patients?

I am bilingual in Creole, as I am of Haitian descent and those that are of same nationality would feel more comfortable speaking to someone who they can communicate with and someone they can relate to. Making them feel more comfortable.