For treatment centers
How to add MAT to your treatment program
Not offering MAT in 2026 is a clinical and business liability. MAT reduces overdose death by 50%, improves retention, and is expected by informed referral sources and families.
Why MAT is non-negotiable
ASAM, SAMHSA, and WHO all recommend MAT as first-line treatment for opioid use disorder. Referral sources increasingly require MAT availability. Insurance companies expect it. Outcomes data is unambiguous. Programs without MAT are perceived as ideologically driven rather than evidence-based.
Clinical setup
Identify a prescribing physician, NP, or PA (any DEA-licensed prescriber can now prescribe buprenorphine). Establish protocols for induction, stabilization, and maintenance. Stock naloxone throughout the facility. Train all clinical staff on MAT education and support. Develop policies for observed dosing if offering methadone. Create patient education materials.
Common objections (and why they are wrong)
It replaces one drug with another: No. MAT stabilizes brain chemistry without impairment, like insulin for diabetes. Patients are not really sober: MAT patients function normally and have better outcomes than abstinence-only approaches. It should be short-term: Evidence shows longer MAT duration produces better outcomes. There is no clinical reason to limit duration.
Marketing MAT services
Highlight MAT availability on your website, directory listings, and marketing materials. Many families specifically search for Suboxone treatment and MAT providers. List your MAT services on Treatment Association and SAMHSA's buprenorphine locator. Referral sources prefer programs offering the full continuum including MAT.
Ready to fill more beds?
Join 18,215 facilities on Treatment Association. Verified listings start at $497/month.
Get Started →