Before 2020, Suboxone providers had to see patients in person before they could write a prescription. Telehealth has helped more people gain access to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD).
However, the expansion of telehealth options has also opened up opportunities for scammers. For example, they may ask for personal or financial information under the false promise of help. Make sure virtual treatment providers have the right credentials. You should also get a good understanding of their processes before signing up. Platforms that promise to fill prescriptions with no consultation aren’t legitimate. They also can’t ship certain medications to your door. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Many studies have found that telehealth MOUD is just as effective as in-person treatments. Some showed higher rates of participation and abstinence. Certain factors may have affected these outcomes such as access to technology, socioeconomic status, and survey timing.
It is possible to find a Suboxone prescriber online. It just takes some research to find one who’s trustworthy. You can even get treatment covered by your insurance. Look for programs that include counseling and wraparound support.
In this article, we’ll share our top seven tips on how to get Suboxone online from a trustworthy source.
7 tips for getting Suboxone online from sources you can trust
Prescription medications can be vital for a person’s health and well-being. They can also be dangerous when used improperly. There are laws to help make sure people are receiving the best medication for their condition and their health.
Suboxone is a Schedule III controlled substance. This means providers need to register with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to prescribe it. Some states may have their own laws about when and how Suboxone can be prescribed.
Controlled substances are subject to The Ryan Haight Online Pharmacy Consumer Protection Act of 2008. This law requires providers to do evaluations in person before writing prescriptions. Temporary rules were created to expand access during the COVID-19 pandemic.
These rules allow providers to see patients virtually. They have been extended a few times, and the DEA has plans to make them permanent.
The following are seven tips for getting Suboxone online from sources you can trust:
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Verify provider credentials and licensing
Suboxone prescribers must be registered with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). They also must be licensed to practice through your state’s medical board. Your pharmacist will verify a provider’s DEA registration and state licensing.
If the service sends you the medication directly without going through a pharmacy, that may be a red flag. Be sure to learn about their credentials before sharing your information or placing an order.
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Look for comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning
Suboxone providers should always do an evaluation and get to know you before writing a prescription. Moving through the process quickly and reducing barriers is one thing. However, if you never have a meeting with someone in real time or they never ask you about your medical history, you may receive poor care. This is for your protection.
You should have ongoing check-ins once you start treatment, too. Weekly urine testing is also standard in many programs for people taking MOUD. It may be reduced to every 2-4 weeks once improvement has been made. Some insurers may also cap the reimbursement amount for urine testing.
Online programs that combine group counseling and support services offer the best care.
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Ensure the program accepts your insurance
Even legitimate online prescribing platforms can be costly. Before you start treatment, ask them to verify coverage for your insurance plan. There are online programs that accept Medicaid. Your plan may require pre-authorization. If you’re waiting on approval, there may be financial assistance to help you get treatment right away. Avoid programs that only accept cash or have strange payment processes.
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Choose programs that support long-term recovery goals
Medication is an important aspect of recovery. However, it’s not the only thing. To make positive life changes that last, you’ll need to make sure your needs are met. Having support from a recovery-oriented community is also crucial.
Look for programs that include counseling and support services. In group counseling, you can learn about recovery and coping skills while connecting with a supportive community. Some programs may coordinate with local organizations that provide things like food and health care.
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Research the provider’s reputation
Looking at online reviews can be a good way to avoid scams and bad experiences. Look for reviews on Google or testimonials on the provider’s website. But keep in mind that reviews and testimonials shouldn’t be the only basis for your decision. Keep in mind that scammers may create fake reviews to boost their overall score.
Really bad reviews here and there aren’t always reflective of average experiences, either. Try to look for details that tell you the review comes from a real person.
Also look for balanced reviews with both good and bad points. Keep an eye out for issues like poor communication, billing issues, and inadequate care. The Better Business Bureau is another trustworthy source to check out.
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Understand the tech and communication requirements
At the very least, you’ll need a good internet connection and a device with a camera. You should set up a quiet place in your home where you can log in for virtual sessions without distractions.
Some platforms may have other requirements. You’ll need to be in a location during sessions where the provider is licensed. Find out how you can contact your care providers between sessions or after hours. Ask what their emergency protocols are and what you should do in case of tech failures.
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Know how prescriptions are handled
Again, legitimate programs should send your prescription through a pharmacy. If you need your meds to be delivered, you may be able to find a pharmacy that offers this service.
Make sure you understand prescription refill and monitoring processes. If you need help applying for Medicaid or managing your insurance, we can help you with that at Groups.
Find a trusted Suboxone prescriber and comprehensive telehealth treatment with Groups
There are trustworthy providers that make it safe and easy to get a Suboxone prescription online. It’s worth your time to do some research and find a high-quality provider. The best platform for you will have affordable services that support your recovery goals.
At Groups, we can provide personalized telehealth care and support to our patients. We build strong relationships because we’re a part of their local communities.
The two main parts of our services are Suboxone and support. We meet with patients one-on-one to help determine if Suboxone treatment is right for them.
Our Recovery Support Specialists also help people with life goals. During group sessions, our members give and receive support from peers who are also in recovery. Between sessions, you can use our recovery app to stay connected with your support system.
One of the things we like best about virtual treatment is that it helps take the stigma out of OUD recovery. Logging in to treatment at home makes it a part of your everyday routine. Some people never seek out the help they need because they don’t want to be shamed for their opioid use. At Groups, we take a more compassionate approach. We’ve seen the difference it makes when people feel accepted and supported.
Are you looking for a telehealth platform that offers Suboxone and support? 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.
