Levels of care
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in Orange County
MAT combines FDA-approved medication with counseling. For opioid use disorder in particular, it is one of the most effective treatments available and lowers the risk of overdose.
Medications used
| For | Medication | How it is given |
|---|---|---|
| Opioids | Buprenorphine (for example Suboxone) | Prescribed by a clinician; daily film or tablet, or monthly injection |
| Opioids | Methadone | Only at licensed opioid treatment programs (narcotic treatment programs) |
| Opioids or alcohol | Naltrexone (for example Vivitrol) | Daily tablet or monthly injection |
| Alcohol | Acamprosate, disulfiram | Daily tablets |
Methadone clinics are licensed separately in California as narcotic treatment programs, so they may not appear in our facility list. Ask your doctor, or call the OC Beneficiary Access Line at (800) 723-8641.
Myths about MAT
- “It is trading one drug for another.” At the right dose, MAT medications reduce cravings and withdrawal without the high, so people can work, parent and engage in therapy.
- “You have to stop eventually.” Many people stay on MAT long-term. That decision is between you and your clinician.
Ask about MAT before you enroll
Not every program offers or allows MAT. If it matters to you, ask: “Do you start or continue buprenorphine or naltrexone here?”
Keep naloxone (Narcan) at home if anyone uses opioids. It is available without a prescription at California pharmacies.
How MAT fits with counseling
Medication handles the physical side: cravings, withdrawal and the risk of overdose. Counseling handles the rest: why you started using, what triggers you, how to rebuild relationships and routines. Programs that combine both tend to keep people in treatment longer. You can receive MAT at any level of care, from detox through outpatient, and many people continue with a primary care doctor after treatment ends.
Starting buprenorphine safely
Buprenorphine is usually started when you are already in mild to moderate withdrawal, so it does not trigger “precipitated withdrawal.” With fentanyl, some clinicians use a low-dose start that overlaps with other opioids for a few days. Follow your prescriber’s plan, and tell them about any other medications, especially benzodiazepines or alcohol use.
Questions to ask a prescriber
- Which medication do you recommend for me, and why?
- How often will I need visits or refills?
- What happens if I miss a dose?
- Is there a plan if I want to taper later?
- Is it covered by my insurance or Medi-Cal?
Before you call a program
- Ask for the DHCS license or certification number and check it.
- Ask which levels of care they provide on site.
- Ask what your insurance covers and what you will owe.
- Ask where you would go next when this level of care ends.
Frequently asked questions
Does Medi-Cal cover MAT?
Yes. MAT is part of Medi-Cal’s substance use benefits in Orange County.
Can I get MAT during residential treatment?
Many residential programs now support MAT. Ask during admissions.
How long do people stay on MAT?
There is no set end date. Many people stay on medication for a year or longer, and stopping too early raises relapse and overdose risk. Decide with your clinician.