Myths Surrounding Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) For Opioid Addiction

Authored by Dillon McClernon

Despite the ongoing evidence that medication assisted treatment is an effective method in treating opioid addiction, there are still stigmas and myths from policymakers and the public surrounding the treatment. People struggling with opioid addiction may not know medication -assisted treatment is available to them, they may feel shamed by their addiction, or they may be given false information about what medication-assisted treatment actually does. These harmful myths and stigmas surrounding medication-assisted treatment can be detrimental and hinder life-saving efforts. Stopping the stigma surrounding medication-assisted treatment and educating the public is a key step in providing treatment and combating the opioid epidemic.

Myth: MAT Just Trades One Addiction for Another

One of the biggest misconceptions about medication-assisted treatment is that it simply trades one for another (i.e. the medications provided at Methadone clinics). While abusing Methadone can become a serious and life-threatening issue, when it is administered and maintained through the proper channels, Methadone and other medications used during medication-assisted treatment can be the very thing that stabilizes a patient and helps keep them in recovery. By alleviating the physical and mental pain that is often associated with opioid withdrawal, medication assisted treatment helps patients feel healthy and ready to work towards their goals of sobriety.

Myth: MAT Is Only for the Short Term

It’s also important to remember that medication assisted treatment isn’t a “quick fix.” Like any successful recovery and rehabilitation, medication assisted treatment may be a lifelong process that requires both the ongoing efforts of trained medical staff and a patient who wishes to continue in

Myth: MAT Will Disrupt the Recovery Process

Medication assisted treatment doesn’t “disrupt” the recovery process—for many, it is a vital step in the recovery process.

Myth: MAT Is Not Covered by Most Insurance Plans

Recovery Centers of America provides affordable care that is covered by Medicaid and most insurance plans.

Authored by

Dillon McClernon

Dillon currently serves as the Senior Director of Sales and Marketing at RCA. After his tenure as Chief Communications Officer and senior advisor to RCA, he opted for a full-time position at RCA where he could build a new team linking sales and marketing to directly impact RCA’s mission of saving 1 million lives.