WHAT DOES OUR PROGRAM CONSIST OF?

Buprenorphine is an FDA-approved medication for special office-based treatment of opiate and opioid addictions. Typically it is combined with Naloxone in formulations commercially available such as Suboxone or BunAvail. Dr. Locketz uses a number of other medications to make patients more comfortable during this process. Once established in our program maintenance can continue and the medication is taken at home every day in place of the opiate or opioid being abused.

HOW MANY FOLLOW-UP VISTS ARE REQUIRED?

Once a patient is induced on MAT and is stable we see them monthly. We require laboratory monitoring of compliance with our program for which we need a random urine sample from time to time. Dr. Locketz does not agree that all patients require extended periods of maintenance. Instead, he chooses to customize the medication assisted treatment plan to each individual patient.

IS COUNSELING REQUIRED?

Therapy is strongly encouraged but not required. Psychotherapy using motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for substance abuse is common. There are home bibliotherapy (self-help) workbooks. Dr. Locketz also facilitates referral and entry into various forms of recovery treatment programs including inpatient facilities when warranted.

WHAT ARE THE DISTANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR TELEMEDICINE ELIGIBILITY?

Our goal is to help the patient through a recovery path. To that end most patients have internet access and can leverage Telemedicine in their recovery. We are expanding our services rapidly and now have better access in the Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, and Moorhead areas.

HOW LONG ARE PATIENTS TYPICALLY ON MAINTENANCE FOR SUBOXONE?

This will vary from patient to patient. We require a six month commitment for most patients.

ARE PREVIOUS MEDICAL RECORDS REQUIRED?

We prefer to have the medical records the day of the first visit. We will await patiently their arrival after this visit if they are not available.