How soon can I be seen?
What can I expect on my first visit?
How long can I expect to be in treatment?
Why is Buprenorphine better than Methadone for opiate/narcotic addiction?
How does Buprenorphine and the Bel Air Center for Addictions compare to other treatment methods and centers?
WILL MY INSURANCE COVER THESE SERVICES?
We do not participate with any insurance companies for addiction services, however, many insurances will reimburse the patient for at least some of the costs with an adequate receipt, which we are happy to provide. Each patient needs to check with their specific insurance company. Also, many patients have a prescription plan through their insurance which will cover the cost of prescription medications that we prescribe with a copay. Once again, each patient needs to contact their insurance company to verify their specific coverage.
Usually the same day you call. We know that one of the hardest steps in dealing with an addiction is admitting you have a problem and asking for help. Once you make the decision to deal with the problem, help needs to be immediate. We want to be there for you to help you get your life back on track as quickly as possible.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON MY FIRST VISIT?
You can expect to spend about 30 minutes with the physician discussing your addiction and your medical history. You will receive medication at that time if appropriate. If you are being seen for buprenorphine treatment for opiate or narcotic addiction you will receive buprenorphine in the form of a pill that dissolves under your tongue. You will be given enough medication to take home with you to last until your next visit, usually 2 or 3 days later. On your follow up visit the dosage of your medication will be adjusted as needed and you will be given a prescription for medication to last until your next visit. Most patients will be seen again in one week, and then again 2 weeks later. As your condition improves the frequency of your visits will decrease.
HOW LONG CAN I EXPECT TO BE IN TREATMENT?
Addiction is a chronic disease characterized by persistence and recurrences. We treat addiction but do not cure it. Many patients continue in treatment for an ongoing long term basis. Some have been in our program for years, others have greatly reduced their dosage of required medication over time, and some have even been able to discontinue treatment all together and remain abstinent. Many patients do very well on their medication, without having withdrawal symptoms or cravings, and they choose to stay on it indefinitely. Your individual condition, situation, needs, and desires will be determined in consultation with our physician.
WHY IS BUPRENORPHINE BETTER THAN METHADONE FOR OPIATE/NARCOTIC ADDICTION?
Several reasons. Methadone must be distributed from a government licensed methadone treatment clinic where you must go on a daily basis to get medication. While this is a very effective treatment, many people find it inconvenient and embarrassing. With buprenorphine maintenance you are able to get your medication prescribed from a private physician's office and you are treated like any other patient with any other type of medical problem. Your treatment is confidential and you do not need to sign in. All of our patients are treated with respect and a caring attitude by our physician and our professionally trained staff. Additionally, while buprenorphine does produce a physical dependence, it does not have the same abuse and addictive potential as methadone.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM TREATMENT AT THE BEL AIR CENTER FOR ADDICTIONS COMPARED TO OTHER TREATMENT METHODS AND CENTERS?
We can only tell you what we have heard from our patients. Many patients have told us that this has been life changing, and life saving treatment. They cannot believe how well they feel, and that their lives are back to normal. Our treatments are based on state of the art theories of addiction, and buprenorphine is truly a miracle drug. While no treatment is 100% effective for every patient we provide a significant alternative to an ongoing addiction problem which can destroy people's savings, homes, jobs, and families. Help is available. Just pick up the phone.
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