Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Ideal Option clinics located?
We have over 90 clinics located in 11 states. For the most current list of Ideal Option clinics, visit our Find a Clinic page.
What is MAT?
Medicated-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is the use of FDA-approved medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a "whole-patient" approach to the treatment of substance use disorder. Research shows that a combination of medication and behavioral therapy can successfully treat these disorders, and for people struggling with addiction, MAT can help sustain recovery. MAT is primarily used for the treatment of addiction to opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, and prescription pain medications, but can also be used for alcohol, smoking, and other substance use disorders.
How can I become an Ideal Option patient?
The easiest way to get started is to fill out this online appointment request form or call us at 1-877-522-1275. Our patient care team is available 7 days a week.
Is Ideal Option a residential program?
No. Ideal Option is an outpatient clinic – very much like a primary care or other medical office. Patients do not stay overnight, they see us for short appointments, every few days to start and then less frequently over time. Our most stable patients come into the clinic for 30-minute appointments just once a month.
What insurance do you accept?
We accept Medicaid, Medicare, Tricare, and most private insurances. For a list of all the insurance providers we work with, please visit this page. If you're uninsured, we can help. Please call 1-877-522-1275 to speak with one of our financial counselors.
What is opioid use disorder (OUD)?
Opioid use disorder is defined as a problematic pattern of opioid use that leads to serious impairment or distress. This can be use of prescription opioids like Oxycodone or illicit opioids like heroin and fentanyl.
How do you treat opioid use disorder?
Ideal Option uses FDA-approved medications to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Medication-assisted treatment is considered to be the gold standard for OUD. Medications used for the treatment of OUD include buprenorphine (Suboxone®, Subutex®), and naltrexone (Vivitrol®). We also encourage and refer our patients to seek behavioral health services, such as counseling or group therapy. Many of our locations offer behavioral health services.
How much does treatment cost?
Your out of pocket cost for treatment depends on your insurance and specific benefit package. When you call to make an appointment, you’ll be transferred to a financial counselor to verify your insurance, your deductible, and any out of pocket costs you may incur. Our financial counselors will also provide you with an estimate of the total cost so you will know what to expect. Most Medicaid plans do not require a co-pay, but every state differs.
How does Suboxone® work?
Suboxone® contains buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine attaches to the same receptors as other opioids but only partially activates those receptors. This eliminates withdrawals and cravings, which helps people feel normal. Naloxone is an antagonist / opioid blocking medication that causes withdrawals if someone tries to inject or snort the Suboxone®.
How many days of medications will I get at a time?
Patients receive a refill for their prescription medication at each visit unless there is a safety issue or diversion (selling or giving away the medication). For the first couple of weeks, visits are scheduled every few days, then visits are weekly, bi-weekly, and eventually, once every 3-4 weeks. Changes to the frequency of visits may be made at any time by our providers depending on the patient's recovery.
Patient Forms
Most new patients will be required to complete their consent forms at the clinic. However, if you have been directed by an Ideal Option staff member to complete your new patient forms online, please click on the "New Patient Packet" below. The release of information (ROI) forms can be completed online and submitted as needed.
New Patient Packet Release of Information to Outside Provider Release of Information to Individual Release of Information to Insurance Provider Ideal Balance DisclosuresAttend an Event
You're Invited
Coming to an Ideal Option open house or new patient information session is a great way to learn more about opioid use disorder, medication-assisted treatment, and the evidence-based services we provide. Our events are open to everyone in the local community. If you're a new patient who is thinking about starting medication-assisted treatment, please join us at an event or stop by the clinic any time to learn more about what to expect.