When you are choosing a methadone doctor, it is important to make sure you will be able to build an effective and trusting relationship with them. Call 800-442-6158 Who Answers? now if you are suffering from an opioid addiction syndrome and need help finding treatment.
1. Experience
There have, over the years, been accounts of methadone’s adverse effects and the drug’s misuse. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, these accounts can be linked to “physician inexperience” in prescribing the medication. Therefore, it is good to ensure that your methadone doctor has lots of experience in prescribing the medication and in treating patients on methadone maintenance treatment (MMT).
2. Makes You Feel Comfortable
Being comfortable with your doctor will increase your chances of sticking with treatment.
It is extremely important that you are comfortable with your methadone doctor, that you feel able to talk to them, and that you feel they put you at ease. If you are uncomfortable around them, you will be less likely to talk about any issues you may have with the program or to ask them questions. You may even avoid seeing them altogether when you can, which can be extremely dangerous.
3. Compassionate
If your doctor is compassionate toward your situation, you will feel much safer and more able to talk to them about your needs. Compassion is an important part of the medical profession, and though your doctor will likely see many people like you throughout their day, it is important that they show you they care about your situation when you are in your consultations.
4. Compatibility
Though your doctor may be compassionate and experienced, making sure you are compatible with them is another important consideration. Ask yourself these questions after you meet with a methadone doctor to ensure that you are compatible.
- Do we agree on a treatment regimen for my opioid addiction and dependence?
- Do they seem like they understand my situation and know what can be done to help me?
- Are we on the same page?
- Do I feel like their ideas about my treatment plan fit with mine, have a timeline that I feel comfortable with, etc.?
According to the NIDA, patients are expected to stay in MMT for at least a year before making the decision with their doctor to be weaned off the drug. This means you will be seeing your methadone doctor for a long time, and making sure you two are compatible can help ensure a smoother treatment program.
5. Supportive
Addiction recovery isn’t easy, but having a supportive methadone doctor can help you stay strong and remind you that you are doing the right thing. Your doctor should support you in your decision to seek help and in your recovery every step of the way.
Get Help Now
We can help you find rehab centers that offer MMT and can allow you to safely recover from your opioid addiction. Call 800-442-6158 Who Answers? now to speak with a treatment advisor and to begin on your road to recovery.
