Admitting you have a dependence on opioids is your first step to freedom. While seeking treatment is an incredibly brave decision, you might be confused by the number of options available.
Methadone clinics are treatment centers where patients receive medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in the form of methadone. This medication reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings for opioids. Methadone has been used to treat addiction for more than 50 years and is considered the gold standard.
If you’re wondering how to choose a methadone treatment center, it’s important to understand what you’re looking for first.
What to Look for in a Methadone Clinic
Not all methadone clinics are created equal — there are a few key features you should look for to ensure you receive the optimal level of care. With that in mind, here are some tips that will help when choosing a methadone clinic.
Location
Location is one of the first things you should consider. You need a treatment center that makes it easy to access medication and services. Having a facility near your home or work increases your chances of sticking to the recovery program and makes it less likely that you’ll find an excuse to quit.
Cost
Traditional, residential and detox only addiction treatment programs can be expensive. Methadone maintenance treatment is an affordable alternative to other options, such as inpatient rehab. Also, many clinics accept Medicaid, Medicare and other forms of health insurance to help offset the cost. It always good practice to call first and see if the clinic accepts the insurance that you may have available or determine what the self pay rate is.
Personalized Treatment and Services
Addiction is different for each person who seeks treatment. That’s why you need a personalized program designed around your needs. Patient care should include services that will help you succeed in recovery. An effective methadone clinic will also include a case manager who will oversee your care plan and update it as needed.
Quality of Staff
Developing trust is an essential aspect of opioid addiction treatment. From the case managers to the medical team and counselors, a clinic’s staff must have the skills, professionalism and empathy to forge real connections with patients and provide high-quality care.
Accreditation
Methadone treatment centers should be accredited. Accreditation from organizations such as the Commission on the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) signals that this facility has opened its doors to a panel of outside experts who validate the quality of care, services and treatments. This creates a culture of excellence among the staff and shows that the programs will have long-term value for your recovery.
Patient Testimonials
Patient testimonials can be indicators of how professional the facility is and how much they care. Higher success rates tend to indicate a solid, well-thought-out program and a great team.
Discharge Planning
Once you’re ready to leave treatment and wean off medication, the staff should be fully prepared. A discharge plan will help with your long-term success outside of treatment.
Choose MedMark Treatment Centers for Quality You Can Trust
Picking the right methadone clinic is a big decision, and MedMark wants to help. We have provided patients with evidence-based MAT for over 10 years, and we have all the characteristics of a high-quality treatment center. With over 30 convenient locations throughout the country, there’s bound to be a MedMark location near you.
Allow us to serve as your foundation for long-term recovery. Reach out today to learn more or give us a call at 866-840-6658.
