Substance abuse has repeatedly been recorded as a leading health concern in our community during Barton’s regularly-conducted Community Health Needs Assessments. Barton’s Medication for Addiction Treatment Program, offers treatment to individuals experiencing addiction to opioids and other substances.

Through the MAT Program, patients are treated using a whole-person approach to substance use recovery through medication, counseling and psychiatric services.

Under the care of our physicians and clinicians, patients and their families will be supported in their recovery regardless of where they are in the process.

For patients suffering from opioid use disorder (e.g. addiction to heroin or opioid pills), medications such as SuboxoneⓇ (buprenorphine) or naltrexone may be prescribed to assist with their recovery. However, Medication-assisted Treatment isn’t just a prescription, it’s a comprehensive approach which provides patients with other tools needed to successfully quit opioids.

Importantly, as we work to address the local opioid crisis, it’s important to acknowledge the stigma around addiction. So often this population is stereotyped instead of receiving the needed resources to quit. It’s possible for patients to become victims of circumstance when being prescribed narcotics for injuries and need legitimate medical help with a resulting dependency.

In addition to the MAT Program, Barton Memorial Hospital’s emergency department and inpatient services also provide evaluation for and treatment of opioid use disorder for patients experiencing medical emergencies or requiring hospital admission. If you feel you are suffering from a medical emergency related to opioid use, the emergency department is open 24-hours.

Those interested in the MAT Program can talk to their medical care provider for a referral, or call Barton Community Health Center at 530-543-5623.

Jacob Marquette, DO is a physician with Barton Health. Learn more about Barton’s MAT Program on March 11 during Dr. Marquette’s free webinar, “Understanding the Risks of Opioids & Help that’s Available.” Register in advance at BartonHealth.org/Lecture.