Frequently Asked Questions
No, East Texas Clinic provides treatment in an outpatient setting. Patients receive medication at the clinic and attend counseling sessions on an appointment-based schedule.
Yes, the medication is highly monitored by our medical staff to ensure that you are receiving a safe dosage. When used under medical supervision as a part of a treatment program, methadone and buprenorphine can safely be taken without any damaging side effects. In addition, at the correct dose, there is no impairment to mental function or your ability to perform daily activities.
The duration of a medication-assisted treatment program is different for each patient. Some patients discharge more quickly, while others find success with longer term treatment. Research has shown that patients who stay for a year or more experience greater successes in long-term recovery than those who stay in treatment for less than a year. Should you choose to leave treatment, our staff will develop a discharge plan to help you be successful outside of the clinic.
Patients must come in for treatment every day at the beginning of their treatment to become stabilized on a medication dose and decrease the risk of relapse. Take home medication may be earned as the patient follows the policies and procedures of the program and meets other regulatory criteria such as time in treatment and favorable drug screens.
All of our clinics are accredited by Joint Commission, providing an assurance that you will receive quality treatment in a safe facility. Patient privacy is regulated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, otherwise known as HIPAA. MedMark adheres to all HIPAA regulations. Alcohol treatment records are also governed by 42 CFR Part 2. Click here to read our privacy policy.
Counseling is required while receiving treatment at East Texas Clinic. It is both an integral part of any comprehensive treatment plan, and a state regulatory requirement for those seeking medication-assisted treatment. East Texas Clinic firmly believes that counseling is an essential aspect of recovery, and our professional counseling staff works to help patients overcome the underlying causes of addiction while learning new tools and coping mechanisms necessary for long-term recovery. Counseling is individualized based on patient needs and state regulations/requirements.
Methadone affects the same areas of the brain as other opioids, but if used as prescribed, the risk of misuse or addiction is greatly reduced.
Methadone is known to interact with some medications, so you should always speak with your Doctor or Nursing staff about any medications you are currently taking. For list of possible interactions visit: https://www.drugs.com/drug_interactions.php
Note: It is extremely dangerous to take benzodiazepines while in a medication-assisted treatment program with methadone. In combination, benzodiazepine medications and methadone have a high risk of causing sedation and respiratory depression which can lead to respiratory failure, overdose, and or death. Please communicate with your treatment provider and physician about the best way to manage your medications in a safe and effective way.
East Texas Clinic provides coordinated care for expectant mothers, working with your Obstetrician or other care provider to ensure your health and the health of your baby are considered in our treatment plan. Methadone has been proven to be safe for you and your baby during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Careful monitoring of the dosage is important during pregnancy and your newborn should be watched closely in the few days following their birth for more information, please reach out to the East Texas Clinic where a counselor or medical professional can answer more questions about starting a medication-assisted treatment program during pregnancy.
East Texas Clinic accepts cash or money orders. Please call for more information.
East Texas Clinic specializes in the treatment of opioid addictions, such as pain pills and heroin.
Methadone does not show up in a routine drug screening for opiates. In order to test positive for methadone they have to be specifically tested for, which is an uncommon practice.