Help in Accessing Critical Medications for Your Loved One
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If your child or loved one is considering or using pharmacotherapy, also known as medication-assisted treatment, to treat their opioid use disorder, you may be wondering how COVID-19 will impact their ability to get these critical medications. Each Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) is subject to state regulations as to how medications can be dispensed, so methods will vary accordingly. Encourage your child to talk with their provider about these policies so there is no lapse in care or medication.
Assuming your child is attending an OTP, it may be helpful to know the following:
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- What is being done to step up cleaning and disinfecting the facility?
- What are plans for group and individual counseling given social distancing?
- How does the clinic plan to handle cases where a person is showing symptoms of the virus?
- What should I do if my child has COVID-19 symptoms?
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Similarly, during dosing, your loved one should take all necessary precautions when going inside a program facility and interacting with others. In the event that the clinic closes, the provider should be able to tell you where you can locate an alternate site and staff to provide dosing.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has developed guidelines for Opioid Treatment Programs to reduce the spread of the virus. As of March 16, states may request the ability for OTPs to offer 28 days of take-home doses of medication for all stable patients. The state may also request up to 14 days of medication for those patients who are not as stable, but believed to be able to safely manage this level of medication. If patients are unable to manage their medications, they will have to attend the OTP on a daily basis. If your child receives a take-home dose, discuss how you can help them maintain their dosing schedule as the increased stress could potentially result in taking more medication than prescribed. |
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COVID-19: We Are Here for You
Social distancing measures and anxiety about COVID-19 present unique challenges for families already impacted by substance use. For that reason, we’ve developed a list of services and resources to support you and your family during this unprecedented time.
Learn more about how you can connect with our free and confidential helpline, join an online support community or read articles with timely and credible information.
During this time of uncertainty, we remain committed to providing you with the support you need to address substance use and addiction from prevention to recovery.
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