Counseling Points - September 2007 - (Page 15)

physician visits in the maintenance phase is usually once per month. Monitor ing treatment through UTOX collection and blood work to assess liver function is recommended. we begin to have a better understanding of the underlying neurologic and physiologic basis for the addictive process, the addiction community is becoming more accepting of medication-assisted addiction treatment. It is important to know when to make a referral and where the most appropriate treatment facility for your patient might be. While exploring collaboration with addiction resources to include individual practitioners and facilities, the care provider is responsible for ensuring the qualifications of the addiction provider selected. In the event that a referral is not made, it is necessary to have professional resources to assist in coordinating service delivery and monitoring progress. Information regarding the status of the individual must be updated regularly to ensure that an appropriate referral is made when it becomes indicated. Consultation and Referral It is very important to ensure that all staff in the practice location and branch offices, on all shifts, is fully aware of the disease state management protocol for emergencies associated with addiction disorders.Assessment of the severity of symptoms should begin immediately, at the same time arrangements for referral and transport are being made. Memorandums of agreement should be in place to assure continuity of treatment. For many years, the treatment of addiction has focused on psychological and behavioral approaches. As Patient and Family Education Many free resources are available, in print and online, to help patients confidentially find treatment providers, to communicate with others who are in recovery and may be on buprenorphine, and to learn more about buprenorphine treatment. SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) lists the doctors who have received their certification waiver. This does not mean they are treating or currently have openings. Call to find out if the physician is taking patients, and inquire about the payment sources s/he accepts. www.samhsa.gov NAABT.org (National Alliance of Advocates for Buprenorphine Treatment) offers a service called the Physician Patient Matching Service (PPMS). This service gives the patient a direct link to doctors who are taking patients in their zip code and within the number of miles they are willing to travel. The service is HIPPA compliant and confidential. The three-fold mission statement is patient education, helping patients find certified treatment providers, and reducing the stigma associated with addiction. NAABT also has a live discussion board where patients may participate in a confidential virtual community, and offer support to others in a similar situation. www.naabt.org S u box on e. co m offers an 800# for help finding treatment. This is a pharmaceutical company hotline. It also provides information about buprenorphine treatment and available resources. www.suboxone.com SEPTEMBER 2007 15 http://www.samhsa.gov http://www.naabt.org http://www.suboxone.com

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Welcome Office-Based Medication-Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence Summary Continuing Education Posttest Postest Answer and Program Evaluation Form

Counseling Points - September 2007

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