Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder

What Is Mercy’s Substance Use Recovery Program?

The Substance Use Recovery Program (SURP) is a virtual care experience that addresses continued opioid use by combining several elements of care. A physician trained in medication-assisted treatment administers medication-assisted therapy (primarily buprenorphine). Additional support is provided by a substance-use-focused social worker in collaboration with a Mercy psychiatrist. SURP ensures that patients seeking treatment will receive ongoing care for opioid use disorder regardless of access to clinical facilities or ability to pay. 

Treating Opioid Use Disorder

Treatment of opioid use disorder has proven effective across a range of outcomes, including decreased drug use, improved overall health and reduced mortality. When therapy begins immediately following an ER visit, patients are 66% less likely to return to the ER and 75% less likely to die. 

Virtual Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder 

Currently, medication-assisted therapy can be delivered entirely virtually. This includes virtual visits delivered by providers authorized to prescribe buprenorphine, as well as social workers who can help with any social concerns and mental health needs with psychiatrist collaboration.

Patients will attend video visits with their provider on a tapering visit frequency. The initial intake visit can last up to an hour if necessary, but later weekly visits typically last about 15 minutes. Once a care plan has been established, visits will be scheduled as needed. A dedicated social worker will deliver parallel personal and social support based on patient needs and existing resources. 

Who Can Benefit from Mercy's Opioid Treatment Program Services? 

SURP is designed to be equally accessible to patients and populations of all types and locations. The success of therapy for substance use disorder varies by patient and severity of the disorder. It can also be influenced by complications of comorbidities, such as alcohol use or mental illness. Mercy provides a fully integrated treatment approach to address any and all factors contributing to continued substance use.

Where to Get Help for Opioid Addiction

The Substance Use Recovery Program is currently available to all Mercy patients in Eastern Missouri with an appropriate referral. If you or a loved one needs help, contact your Mercy provider to be referred.