Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a leading approach in addiction treatment used to treat alcohol and opioid use disorders. It combines traditional behavioral therapies and counseling with cutting-edge medications to provide patients with a “whole-person” approach. MAT is thought to be more comprehensive and effective than behavioral therapy and peer support alone.[1]
Unfortunately, there is a stigma surrounding the idea of medication-assisted treatment. Some believe it is merely replacing one substance with another. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Many studies and addiction professionals have had great success incorporating MAT into their client’s treatment plans.
Because of this stigma, you may be wary about finding the right treatment for you. Knowing how to choose a medication-assisted treatment program in Massachusetts can help you make the right decision and come one step closer to the sober, healthy life you deserve.
Narrow Down Your Options By Researching In-Network Treatment Facilities
Rehab can be expensive–especially when you throw medications into the mix. However, at most rehab facilities, treatment is fully or partially covered by health insurance. To make sure your health insurance covers the most of your treatment and medications as possible, you’ll need to make sure to choose an in-network drug rehab facility.
In-network programs offer discounted rates to insured members of specific insurance plans. You can reduce the cost of your medication and treatment significantly by choosing a rehab center that accepts your insurance. You can find a list of in-network providers by speaking with your insurance agent or calling an addiction specialist and having them verify your insurance for you.
Consider Your Personal Treatment Needs
Now that the hard part of dealing with insurance is out of the way, you can begin narrowing your options down further by considering your individual treatment needs. When trying to choose the best medication-assisted treatment program in Massachusetts for you, consider the following factors:
- Location – Do you want to be close to family and home? Or, would you prefer to travel for rehab for a fresh start?
- Program duration – Addiction treatment usually lasts 30, 60, or 90 days, but many MAT programs will base the program duration on your progress in treatment. It’s best to pick a program with a flexible duration so you aren’t rushed out of treatment.
- Level of care – Some MAT programs are residential while others are outpatient only. Others have a full continuum of care based on the program intensity you can benefit from the most.
- Program specialties – If you struggle with addiction and a co-occurring mental health condition, you are not alone. Many people who struggle with addiction also struggle with mental health, trauma, and more. Be sure to choose a MAT program that can not only prescribe medications but also treat your specific needs.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Should Start With Detox
Many of the medications used in MAT such as Vivitrol and Sublocade cannot be used until you have completed detox. These medications require you to be sober for 7-14 days and fully detoxed before starting treatment.[2,3]
Other medications, such as buprenorphine, can be started during detox, but not until you’ve been sober from opioids for 12-24 hours. Taking buprenorphine too early can put you into precipitated withdrawal–a form of opioid withdrawal that is sudden, severe, and sometimes dangerous.[4]
The safest way to start medication-assisted treatment is to detox at a licensed medical facility and begin taking medications under the close supervision of a doctor and medical team. Be sure to choose a MAT program that is fully equipped with medical detox services or one that will work with a nearby detox center to create a safe and effective treatment plan for you.
Look for Individualized Care and Evidence-Based Practices
Some MAT clinics only require you to show up every morning, take a drug test, receive your medication, and check-in with a counselor once a week. While this approach may work for some people, it’s very important to address the underlying cause of your addiction. Simply taking medication cannot cure your addiction or provide you with the coping skills you need to stay sober in the long term.
Instead, it’s vital to choose a medication-assisted treatment center that uses evidence-based practices and individualized treatment plans. This means treatment should include:
- An initial assessment to determine your treatment needs
- Ongoing assessments to modify your treatment plan according to your changing needs
- Structured therapy, support groups, and other healing services
- Behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and mindfulness-based relapse prevention (MBRT)
- Licensed counselors who are qualified to treat mental health and addiction
- On-site medical staff available
- Aftercare planning to help you plan for life after rehab
For best results, choose a medication-assisted rehab center that is state-licensed and accredited by a third-party organization such as CARF or JCAHO.
Get The Care You Need and Deserve
Woburn Addiction Treatment is a leader in the addiction treatment field, with proven success in facilitating long-term recovery. Our team of top clinical & medical experts specializes in treating addiction coupled with mental illness, ensuring that each person receives individualized care. Call us – we’re available 24/day, 7 days/week.
Start Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) in Massachusetts Today at Woburn Addiction Treatment
Choosing a medication-assisted treatment center doesn’t have to be difficult. Here at Woburn Addiction Treatment, we have everything required for a successful MAT program. We are Joint-Commission accredited, have licensed and experienced counselors on-staff, accept a wide variety of health insurance plans, and are dedicated to providing each of our patients with the individualized care they deserve. Don’t wait any longer to start your journey towards a better life. Call now to speak with an admissions coordinator to see if our medication-assisted treatment program in Woburn, Massachusetts is right for you.
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