Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) uses FDA-approved medications to help people manage opioid or alcohol use disorders. These medications can reduce cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and support continued recovery. When combined with counseling and behavioral therapy, MAT can also help people address the challenges that contribute to substance use.
White Light Behavioral Health offers MAT as part of its addiction treatment services in Columbus, Ohio. Treatment may include evidence-based addiction therapies that help people develop healthier coping skills and work toward lasting recovery.
Does Ohio Medicaid Cover Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Yes. Ohio Medicaid covers medication-assisted treatment for eligible members with opioid use disorder (OUD). This includes coverage for FDA-approved medications used to treat the condition.
Ohio made its Medicaid MAT benefit permanent through a state plan amendment that took effect October 1, 2025. However, Ohio Medicaid coverage for drug treatment can vary depending on the medication, your Medicaid plan, and individual circumstances. Some prescriptions may require prior authorization or have other restrictions.
If you have Ohio Medicaid, the admissions team at White Light can help you understand your benefits and potential treatment costs.
What Medications Are Used in MAT?
The medication used in MAT depends on whether someone is receiving treatment for opioid use disorder or alcohol use disorder. A medical provider considers substance use history, health needs, and other medications before recommending an option.
Medications for Opioid Use Disorder
Three medications are commonly used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD):
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Buprenorphine: Partially activates opioid receptors to reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms. It can also help block the effects of other opioids.
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Methadone: Activates opioid receptors to reduce cravings and prevent withdrawal symptoms. Methadone for OUD is dispensed through a federally certified opioid treatment program.
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Naltrexone: Blocks opioid receptors, preventing opioids from producing their usual effects. Naltrexone is available as a daily pill or a monthly injection. Before starting treatment, a person must be opioid-free for an appropriate period to avoid triggering severe withdrawal symptoms.
These medications can reduce the risk of overdose and help people manage opioid use disorder over time. A medical provider considers a person’s health, substance use history, and treatment needs when recommending an option.
Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder
Three FDA-approved medications can help people manage alcohol use disorder (AUD):
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Naltrexone: Can reduce alcohol cravings and help people cut back on heavy drinking.
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Acamprosate: Helps people who have stopped drinking maintain their sobriety by reducing some of the discomfort that can follow alcohol withdrawal.
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Disulfiram: Causes unpleasant physical reactions if someone drinks alcohol while taking the medication, which can discourage drinking.
These medications work in different ways, and each has potential benefits and risks. A medical provider can review your health history and help determine whether one may be appropriate for you.
Who Can Benefit from Medication-Assisted Treatment?
MAT may benefit people with opioid or alcohol use disorders, whether they’re seeking treatment for the first time or have tried to stop using substances before. Medication can help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms while supporting ongoing recovery.
Some people begin MAT after completing medical detox, while others start medication as part of their ongoing treatment. Detox alone does not address every aspect of opioid or alcohol use disorder. A clinician can evaluate your health, substance use history, and treatment needs to determine whether medication should be part of your care.
A provider may also consider:
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Co-occurring mental health conditions
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Other medications or substances being used
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Previous treatment experiences
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Current withdrawal symptoms and medical needs
A medical assessment helps determine whether MAT is appropriate and what additional support may be needed. If you’re experiencing opioid withdrawal, medical detox for opioid withdrawal in Ohio can provide medically supervised care.
How MAT Fits into White Light’s Addiction Treatment Programs
MAT can be incorporated into a broader addiction treatment plan alongside counseling and other recovery support. The recommended level of care depends on a person’s health, safety, and treatment needs.
White Light’s addiction treatment program offers several levels of addiction treatment, including:
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Medical detox: Helps people manage withdrawal symptoms with medical supervision when needed.
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Residential treatment: Provides a structured setting where people live at the facility while receiving ongoing treatment and support.
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Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Offers full-day treatment without an overnight stay.
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Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Provides scheduled treatment while allowing time for daily responsibilities.
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Outpatient treatment: Offers ongoing support with a less intensive schedule.
Your care team will recommend a level of treatment based on your needs. Specific medication options and medication-management services may vary depending on your treatment plan and the services available through White Light.
How to Get Started with MAT in Columbus, Ohio
If you’re considering MAT, White Light’s admissions team can answer your questions and explain what to expect from the treatment process. Here’s a step-by-step process of how to get started:
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Contact admissions. Share your concerns, substance use history, and questions about MAT. The admissions team can explain the available treatment options and next steps.
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Review insurance coverage. The admissions team can review your insurance benefits and explain potential costs. If you don’t have coverage, ask about available payment options and going to rehab without insurance.
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Complete a medical assessment. A clinician reviews your medical history, substance use, current symptoms, and any other factors that may affect treatment.
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Discuss your treatment plan. Your care team discusses the recommended level of care, whether medication may be appropriate, and what treatment could involve.
Your treatment plan will reflect your individual needs. Some people benefit from medication alongside structured treatment, while others may need a different combination of services and support.
Explore MAT at White Light Behavioral Health
Living with opioid or alcohol use disorder can be challenging, but effective treatment options are available. MAT may help reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and provide additional support as you work toward recovery.
At White Light Behavioral Health in Columbus, Ohio, our team can help you understand your treatment options and determine whether medication-assisted treatment may fit your needs.
Reach out today to discuss your situation, ask questions about MAT, and learn what getting started involves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MAT just replacing one drug with another?
No. MAT uses FDA-approved medications to treat substance use disorders and help people manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. These medications are prescribed as part of a treatment plan and are not simply substitutes for one substance with another.
How long do people stay on MAT?
The length of treatment depends on the medication, a person’s health, and their recovery needs. Some people benefit from MAT for months, while others continue treatment for several years or longer. Medication should never be reduced or stopped without guidance from a medical provider.
Does MAT include counseling?
MAT often includes counseling and behavioral therapy to help people build coping skills and address challenges related to substance use. However, medication for opioid use disorder can still be effective even when someone isn’t participating in counseling.
Can MAT treat alcohol use disorder?
Yes. Medications such as naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram can support treatment for alcohol use disorder. A medical provider can help determine whether one is appropriate.
