Depending on where you live, it can be hard to find a doctor who has experience treating opioid use disorder (OUD). Medications like Suboxone are considered the gold standard for OUD treatment. However, comprehensive care should also include counseling and social support. Telehealth programs are making high-quality, personalized care more accessible. Virtual sessions may be right for you if you live in a rural area, if you have limited mobility, or if you don’t have reliable transportation. Online appointments are more flexible to work around your schedule. Some people just prefer to receive treatment remotely.
Studies have shown that people in virtual substance use treatment programs saw results that were comparable to in-person treatment or better. Many people showed a preference for virtual treatment. They were often able to spend more time in treatment than those receiving in-person care. As you transition from higher levels of care into new routines at work and in the community, virtual appointments allow you to receive the support you need without interrupting your day.
In this blog post, we’ll share seven reasons why virtual Suboxone prescriptions and counseling may be helpful if you’re looking for a Suboxone doctor near you.
7 benefits of virtual Suboxone prescriptions and counseling for those looking for Suboxone providers near them
The greatest benefit of virtual OUD treatment, besides access to Suboxone, is the social support. Trying to end opioid use on your own is difficult, and it can even be dangerous. Virtual treatment is your lifeline to a recovery-oriented community. Your medication provider, your counselor, and your peers help you out in their own unique ways. Virtual treatments allow you to reach out for help in the moments when you need it most. They also open up ways to get your family and friends involved with your recovery.
There’s evidence that long-term Suboxone treatment helps prevent opioid use and overdose long after the initial phases of recovery. Many people choose to keep taking a maintenance dose indefinitely. There are long-acting options available that you only have to take once a week or once a month. Meeting your Suboxone prescriber for remote medication management may be a more practical way to maintain a long-term relationship. The only restriction is that you must see a provider who’s DEA-registered and licensed to provide treatment in your state.
You can expect these benefits from virtual Suboxone prescriptions and counseling:
- Easier access to treatment — Virtual treatments eliminate the need for transportation to appointments and support groups. This makes it easier for people in rural areas and those who don’t have reliable transportation to access care for OUD. Treatments at home are more manageable for those who have limited mobility or other chronic health conditions. It also opens up your options, so you aren’t restricted to what’s available in your immediate area. In some cases, this means shorter wait times. People who have kids or a busy work schedule may prefer virtual appointments. They allow you to get the help you need without taking too much time away from your other responsibilities.
- Privacy and reduced stigma — If you’re concerned about others finding out that you’re in treatment, virtual appointments provide an extra level of privacy. You can meet with your providers and support group without leaving your home. This means no commute and no waiting rooms. You won’t run into someone you know while you’re attending treatment.
- Consistent care and better attendance — People who receive virtual care tend to have better attendance and stay in treatment longer than those who see their providers in person. Virtual platforms may allow for more flexible scheduling, which makes appointments more convenient. All of this adds up to better engagement with your treatment process. You’ll feel more supported so you can stay on track with your recovery goals.
- Cost savings — Virtual treatment can help you cut down on travel expenses. You can make appointments work around your schedule, and in some cases, this means less time off work. Better attendance may also shorten your overall time in treatment. Depending on your health insurance, virtual treatments may be more cost effective than in-person.
- Comprehensive care from anywhere — Considering virtual treatment programs may open up possibilities for more comprehensive care. At Groups, we combine Suboxone treatment with counseling in a group setting. We don’t just focus on abstinence — we help you set new life goals that inspire you and build up positives in your life. People achieve better health outcomes when they have social support, life skill training, and personalized care.
- Opportunities to get families involved — Attending virtual sessions may make it easier to get your personal support system involved with your treatment. Loved ones can join you for counseling sessions. This will give them opportunities to learn about OUD and find out how they can best support you.
- Treatment improved by technology — Virtual platforms allow you to stay in touch with your care providers. Most allow you to send direct messages and access your digital records when you want to. You may be able to set up reminders for medication and appointments. You may also have access to digital resources for education and staying connected with your treatment community.
What else can I expect during virtual treatments?
When you begin virtual treatment for OUD, you’ll start with an intake assessment. You’ll talk with a licensed counselor and a qualified Suboxone prescriber who will get to know you on a personal level. They’ll ask questions about your health history, and we’ll ask you to do a urine screen. It’s OK if you test positive. We only do this to help us make the best treatment decisions. We don’t use test results to judge you or shame you for opioid use.
To benefit from virtual treatment, you’ll need a reliable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone. A smartphone, tablet, or laptop will work. Try to find a place in your home where you won’t be interrupted. Make it comfortable and gather everything you’ll need, like a charger and a notebook and pen. If you live with family or a roommate, let them know you’ll need some space during virtual appointments. You can’t attend virtual appointments while you’re driving. You can attend treatments from a private area at work or from your car, as long as you’re parked in a safe location. If you don’t have a phone, computer, or other device, we can help. Members have access to Recovery Support Specialists. They can help with technology and other important life goals.
Discover your options for virtual OUD treatment at Groups
Offering virtual options opens up OUD treatment to people who otherwise might not have access. It’s also helping us provide a more personalized level of care to our members seeking online treatment.
Treatment at Groups has three components: medication management, sessions with a licensed counselor, and support groups. We offer all of these services in both in-person and virtual formats for people who are recovering from OUD.
Groups offers virtual and in-person care in nine states, with more to come:
- Florida
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Maine
- New Hampshire
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- West Virginia
Are you looking for a Suboxone doctor near you or exploring your OUD treatment options? We can help. Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today. We provide treatment across the country—and we’re always expanding. See if we offer care in your state, either online or at one of our 130+ local offices. If Groups does not offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.
