Many people have a hard time getting the mental healthcare they need, even in the best of times. A lack of access to providers or stigma can get in the way, and some people may not even know that telehealth is an option. For those struggling with addiction, telehealth offers another route to recovery that can be as effective as in-person visits.

Telehealth allows recovering addicts to connect with their health care provider remotely, whether that’s via video conferencing apps like Zoom or through text and phone calls. It gives them the sense that their treatment plan is being monitored more closely and that they’re not alone in these isolating times. It also helps them feel connected to their provider and that they haven’t been forgotten, particularly when they might struggle with isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Addiction recovery telehealth offers an array of benefits, including shorter wait times, more privacy and reduced stigma. It can help reduce costs by eliminating the need for travel and can make services more available to those with mobility issues, limited access to childcare or other barriers. It can also be a great option for people with chronic conditions who are used to receiving remote care, and it can help patients feel more in control of their treatment.

However, just as with in-person medical visits, telehealth isn’t the right choice for everyone. For example, virtual sessions aren’t a suitable solution for people with serious mental health needs such as suicidal thoughts or those who require immediate crisis intervention. And, of course, not every telehealth service is covered by private insurance or Medicare and Medicaid, meaning that some patients might not have access to this type of care at all.

While there are a few hiccups to consider, telehealth is still a valuable tool for addiction recovery. It can offer a variety of services, including counseling sessions, screenings and evaluations, MAT medication consultations, and more. As a result, it’s important that addiction treatment facilities continue to explore telehealth services as a viable addition to their offerings.

With so many people struggling to get the mental healthcare they need, it’s critical that a wide range of options are available. Telehealth is one of those options, and it’s proving to be an effective tool in the fight against addiction. It’s time for more addiction treatment centers to embrace telehealth as a part of their offering and start helping people find recovery on their terms. telehealth for addiction