How Can MAT (Medication Assisted Treatment) Help?
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) and Recovery (MAR) are common terms in the substance use treatment world. But what are they, really and how can they help someone begin their journey to recovery?
Medication Assisted Recovery (MAR)
At Lifeline Connections, MAR is an umbrella term that offers different levels of care throughout the recovery continuum. It offers medication assisted treatment (MAT) and additional support programs. It provides Narcan training, tobacco cessation, health screening, insurance set up, needs assessments and referrals if needed.
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT is a part of that program that is used to help individuals into recovery by reducing cravings for opioid or alcohol use. Medications such as Vivitrol, Bupenephrine and a combination Bupenephrine via tabs, strips and in visit injections are used.
Levels of Care:
Stage 1
The first stage in a harm reduction model like MAT provides walk-in times for any patient. This is known as Rapid Response. Everyone starts at this stage. Lifeline Connections sees patients more during this stage and assesses the patient’s needs more. Once needs are progressing and substance and alcohol use is minimal to none, then they go to the next stage. Providers may recommend additional substance use or mental health treatment. Patients must have a recovery goal or objective to measure progression.
Stage 2
The next stage MAT is a more flexible program for patients who have been through our Rapid Response program. This has more spread out visits and patients can make appointments rather than showing up to the walk in times. Providers may also still recommend additional substance use or mental health treatment
Stage 3
Medication management is when you graduate MAT. For example, this consists of fewer visits and check-ins. This is also where a plan is developed to taper off the medication.
How to Start
There are many different ways to combat substance use disorders and each patient is different. If you or someone you know is looking for treatment, please contact the professional team at Lifeline Connections. You can visit Lifelineconnections.org, our Services & Locations information or call (360) 397-8246 for more information.
