Frequently Asked Questions
About Virtual MAT Treatment

What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to treating opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) that combines FDA-approved medications with clinical counseling, behavioral support, and ongoing monitoring. It is recognized by SAMHSA, the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), and the National Institutes of Health as a gold-standard, first-line treatment for opioid use disorder. MAT medications reduce cravings, prevent withdrawal, and stabilize brain chemistry so individuals can engage meaningfully in recovery.

Is MAT just replacing one drug with another?

No — this is a common misconception. When used as prescribed under clinical supervision, buprenorphine (Suboxone) and naltrexone (Vivitrol) do not produce intoxication or euphoria. They work by stabilizing brain chemistry and reducing cravings. This is clinically equivalent to using insulin for diabetes or beta blockers for heart disease — it is treatment, not substitution. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the American Medical Association both affirm that MAT is effective, evidence-based medicine.

How long does MAT treatment last?

SAMHSA guidelines recommend against placing arbitrary time limits on MAT. Duration is highly individual — some patients benefit from treatment for months, others for years. Research consistently shows that longer duration of MAT is associated with better outcomes. The decision to taper or discontinue medication is made collaboratively between you and your clinician based on your progress, stability, and individual circumstances.

How do I know if I qualify for MAT?

Qualification is determined through a confidential clinical assessment by a licensed provider. Generally, MAT for opioid use disorder is appropriate for individuals with an OUD diagnosis who are seeking to stabilize and recover. MAT for alcohol use disorder is appropriate for individuals with AUD who want medication support as part of their treatment plan. The best way to find out is to request a confidential assessment — there is no commitment required and no pressure to begin treatment.

What medications does Project VBOT prescribe for opioid use disorder?

The primary medication prescribed at Project VBOT for opioid use disorder is buprenorphine/naloxone (brand name Suboxone). This is an FDA-approved sublingual film or tablet that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Extended-release naltrexone (Vivitrol) may be appropriate in some cases, particularly for patients who have already completed detox. Your clinician will determine the most appropriate medication based on your clinical situation.

What is the difference between buprenorphine and Suboxone?

Buprenorphine is the active ingredient that treats opioid use disorder. Suboxone is a brand-name combination product containing buprenorphine plus naloxone. The naloxone is added as a deterrent to misuse — if Suboxone is injected rather than taken sublingually, the naloxone triggers withdrawal. Generic buprenorphine/naloxone is equally effective and often covered by insurance at lower cost. Project VBOT prescribes the formulation that is clinically and practically best for each patient.

Do I need to detox before starting Suboxone?

Suboxone induction requires that you be in mild-to-moderate opioid withdrawal before your first dose — typically 12 to 24 hours after your last opioid use for short-acting opioids, or longer for longer-acting opioids like methadone. Starting buprenorphine before withdrawal begins can trigger precipitated withdrawal. Your Project VBOT clinician will guide you through the induction process safely. Low-dose induction techniques can also reduce discomfort at the start.

What medications are used for alcohol use disorder?

FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorder include naltrexone (oral daily or monthly extended-release injection), acamprosate (Campral), and disulfiram (Antabuse). Naltrexone reduces the pleasurable effects of alcohol and decreases cravings. Acamprosate reduces the discomfort of abstinence. Disulfiram causes an unpleasant physical reaction if alcohol is consumed, acting as a deterrent. Project VBOT prescribes these based on clinical assessment and individual preference.

Does Project VBOT prescribe methadone?

No. Methadone for opioid use disorder is only dispensed through federally certified Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) — commonly called methadone clinics — and cannot be prescribed virtually or through a regular outpatient practice. Project VBOT prescribes buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) and, where appropriate, naltrexone (Vivitrol). If methadone is the most appropriate treatment for you, our team can help refer you to a local OTP.

Where does my prescription get filled?

Your prescription is sent electronically to a pharmacy of your choice — any retail pharmacy in your area, including major chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart, as well as local independent pharmacies. You can use GoodRx or similar programs to compare prices. For patients on Medicaid, most pharmacies accept NC Medicaid for covered medications.

How does virtual MAT treatment work?

Virtual MAT at Project VBOT works through four steps: (1) Contact us by phone, text, or online form for a confidential intake. (2) A licensed clinician conducts a clinical assessment via secure video or phone telehealth — often the same day. (3) If MAT is appropriate and you choose to proceed, your prescription is sent electronically to a pharmacy of your choice. (4) You attend regular follow-up visits — typically 20-minute appointments, never more than once a week, scheduled around your life.

Is virtual MAT as effective as in-person treatment?

Yes. Peer-reviewed research — including studies published in JAMA Psychiatry — has found that telehealth-delivered buprenorphine treatment produces outcomes comparable to in-person care, including retention rates and reductions in opioid use. Project VBOT maintains a 90.9% 30-day patient retention rate and 95% counseling appointment attendance, which reflect strong real-world clinical performance.

What technology do I need for virtual appointments?

No special equipment is needed. Most appointments can be completed using a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and internet connection. Some appointments may be conducted by phone only if video is not available. We use a secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform and will provide setup instructions before your first visit. Our team is happy to walk you through the process if you need help.

How often do I need to attend appointments?

Appointments are typically once a week, lasting about 20 minutes. As treatment progresses and you stabilize, visit frequency may decrease to biweekly or monthly based on clinical judgment. Appointments are scheduled around your work and family schedule and can be attended from home, your car, or anywhere private.

Does Project VBOT accept Medicaid?

Yes. Project VBOT accepts North Carolina Medicaid including NC Medicaid Direct and managed care plans (Carolina Complete Health, Healthy Blue, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, AmeriHealth Caritas NC, and WellCare), Virginia Medicaid, Medicare, most commercial insurance plans, and Tricare. Our team verifies your specific benefits before your first appointment.

Is virtual MAT covered by insurance?

Yes. Telehealth-delivered medication-assisted treatment is covered by Medicaid, Medicare, and most commercial insurance plans. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires insurance plans to cover substance use disorder treatment at the same level as other medical conditions. Coverage for specific medications and services varies by plan — our team will clarify your benefits upfront.

What if I don't have insurance?

Self-pay options are available. Our team can explain current costs and payment options before you make any commitment — no surprises, no pressure. We can also help you understand whether you may qualify for Medicaid or other coverage programs in NC or VA. Not having insurance is not a barrier to starting treatment.

How much does Suboxone cost with Medicaid?

Buprenorphine/naloxone is covered under Medicaid and typically costs little or nothing out-of-pocket for Medicaid-enrolled patients. Coverage details vary by managed care plan and formulary. Our team will confirm your specific medication coverage as part of the intake process. Generic buprenorphine/naloxone is also widely available and may be available at low cost through pharmacy discount programs like GoodRx.

Will my employer find out I'm in treatment?

No. Substance use disorder treatment records are protected by 42 CFR Part 2 — one of the strongest federal privacy laws in healthcare. Unlike general HIPAA protections, 42 CFR Part 2 specifically prohibits disclosure of substance use treatment records to employers, family members, law enforcement, and most courts without your explicit written consent. Your employer will not be notified.

Will it show up on my medical records?

Treatment records at Project VBOT are protected by 42 CFR Part 2, which restricts how and when records can be shared — including with other healthcare providers, unless you provide written consent. How treatment appears in general medical records varies by situation. Your clinician can help you understand your privacy rights and how records are managed in your specific case.

Can anyone see my telehealth appointments?

No. Project VBOT uses a secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform. Sessions are encrypted and cannot be accessed by third parties. You control where you take your appointments — from home, your car, or anywhere you have privacy. You do not need to log in on a shared device or use accounts that others can access.

What if I'm in a court case or custody situation?

42 CFR Part 2 protections apply even in court situations — your treatment records generally cannot be subpoenaed or disclosed without your written consent or a court order meeting specific legal standards. Every situation is different, and we strongly recommend consulting with a legal professional about your specific circumstances. Our team can also discuss your privacy concerns before you begin treatment.

What happens during the first appointment?

Your first appointment is a confidential clinical assessment — a conversation with a licensed clinician about your history with substance use, your health, your goals, and what treatment options may work for you. It typically takes 20 to 40 minutes via secure telehealth. You are not required to begin treatment after this assessment and there is no pressure to do so. If MAT is clinically appropriate and you choose to proceed, your clinician can often initiate your prescription the same day.

How quickly can I start treatment?

Same-day access is available in many cases. After you contact us, our team schedules your clinical assessment as quickly as possible — often the same day you reach out. If MAT is appropriate and you are ready to proceed, your prescription can be sent to your pharmacy the same day as your first clinical visit.

Do I need a referral to get started?

No. You do not need a referral from a doctor or another provider to request a confidential assessment. Anyone can contact Project VBOT directly — by phone, text, or through the online assessment form. Family members and friends can also reach out on behalf of someone they are concerned about.

What should I have ready before my first appointment?

It helps to have your insurance card available for benefits verification. If you have previous medical records related to substance use treatment, you can share those but are not required to. Most importantly, just be ready to have an honest conversation about your situation — that's all that's needed to get started. Our clinicians are experienced with difficult histories and will not judge you.

Where can I get virtual Suboxone in North Carolina?

Project VBOT provides virtual Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) prescribing to patients located anywhere in North Carolina — including all 100 counties and both urban and rural areas. After a telehealth clinical assessment, your prescription is sent to a pharmacy of your choice in NC. Call (838) 438-8268 or request a confidential assessment at projectvbot.com.

Does Project VBOT serve rural North Carolina?

Yes. Rural NC counties often have few or no local MAT providers, and access to in-person addiction treatment is a significant challenge. Because Project VBOT delivers care entirely virtually, individuals in any NC county — including remote mountain and coastal communities — receive the same quality of licensed, evidence-based treatment as those in major cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, or Durham.

Does Project VBOT serve Virginia?

Yes. Project VBOT provides virtual substance use disorder treatment — including medication-assisted treatment — to individuals located anywhere in Virginia. Virginia Medicaid and most commercial insurance plans are accepted. Same-day access is available in many cases.

Does VBOT accept Healthy Blue (BCBS NC)?

Yes. Project VBOT accepts Healthy Blue, which is the BCBS NC Medicaid managed care plan serving NC Medicaid enrollees. If you are enrolled in Healthy Blue through NC Medicaid, your substance use disorder treatment at Project VBOT is covered under your plan. We also accept Blue Cross Blue Shield commercial plans.