Frequently Asked Questions
 
 
Who is eligible for treatment at Step-Free Recovery?
Individuals who are addicted to or regularly using opioids who want to stop and do not have a need for care of more serious medical or psychiatric conditions.
 
What is Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) utilizes medications to help individuals manage or overcome opioid use disorders. The medications commonly used in MAT are Methadone, Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex, Zubsolv), and Naltrexone (Vivitrol). Methadone is a Schedule II full-opioid receptor agonist and must be administered under a physician’s supervision at a regulated clinic. While it reduces cravings and withdrawal, it is more high-risk and thus more controlled.
Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex, Zubsolv) is a partial opioid receptor agonist and considered safer due to its “ceiling” effect, while still reducing cravings and curbing withdrawal. It may be prescribed in various settings by certified clinicians and offers more flexibility and accessibility to people who want to maintain a normal life. Naltrexone (Vivitrol) is an opioid receptor antagonist and works by blocking the effects of opioids. If a person relapses and uses an opioid, naltrexone prevents the feeling of getting high. It is only suitable for maintaining abstinence once an individual is completely detoxed from opioids.
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What medications does Step-Free Recovery Prescribe?
Step-Free Recovery providers primarily prescribe Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone). During the induction process, we may also prescribe adjunctive medications for withdrawal for a more comfortable transition; this includes medications for management of nausea, restless legs, or anxiety.
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What is the indication for Suboxone?
Rx Only. SUBOXONE is indicated for the treatment of opioid dependence in adults. SUBOXONE should not be taken by individuals who have been shown to be hypersensitive to buprenorphine or naloxone as serious adverse reactions, including anaphylactic shock, have been reported. Taking SUBOXONE with other opioid medicines, benzodiazepines, alcohol, or other central nervous system depressants can cause breathing problems that can lead to coma and death. Other side-effects may include headaches, nausea, vomiting, constipation, insomnia, pain, increased sweating, sleepiness, dizziness, coordination problems, physical dependence or abuse, and liver problems.
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How much does Step-Free Recovery cost?
Step-Free Recovery has different pricing plans, depending on individual treatment needs. We offer a month-to-month treatment option and subscription-based service. You can access our Services and Pricing plans 
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Are there any late fees or no-show fees?
To honor the time of our clinicians and fellow patients, Step-Free Recovery does implement a no-show fee. A fee of $50 will be applied for initial visits that are missed or canceled within 12 hours of the appointment, and for follow-up visits missed or canceled within 24 hours, as these are scheduled weeks in advance. We value your time and understanding in these matters and are committed to providing caring and supportive service to all our patients.
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Can I be seen outside of business hours?
Yes! Step-Free Recovery offers an after-hours on call option, where you can be seen by a provider for initial induction immediately, as well as a 24-hour messaging service. See our subscription plans and pricing 
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How much does the medication cost?
Most insurance plans generally cover medication costs, leaving only minimal copays for patients.
For those without insurance, medication expenses will be an out-of-pocket cost, varying by prescription type, amount, and dosage. We have resources available to help reduce these costs, so please feel free to inquire if interested. We are here to assist you in making your healthcare more affordable and accessible.

Why don’t you take Insurance?
​Insurance is often a barrier to accessible treatment. Many insurers demand that you, the patient, jump through hoops in order to have MAT paid for—mandatory counseling, group sessions, unnecessary in-person visits, etc. We want to make Suboxone as accessible and straightforward as possible for those with opioid-use disorder so that they can first cease physical dependency, then focus on healing the mind.
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Who helps me with my treatment at Step-Free Recovery?
At Step-Free Recovery, you will first speak with a patient care coordinator, who will explain the treatment process, answer any questions you have, and schedule your first visit with your provider.
Next you will meet your provider, who will review your medical history with you, propose a treatment plan, and then manage your prescriptions. Your provider will be available frequently throughout the induction process and then maintenance treatment to ensure you are at a comfortable, therapeutic dosage.
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How do I meet and attend my visits?
At Step-Free Recovery, all our visits are done through a HIPAA-secured teleconference app via Simple Practice. It is free to download on your smartphone, computer, or tablet. There, you will also have access to a patient portal, our secure messaging system, and calendar to check provider availability and schedule appointments. You will receive a link to your email to join the video call.
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How often are my visits?
During the first month of treatment, patients will have visits with their provider as often as needed as they are stabilizing onto their medication. After that, patients will have a check in once a month. Treatment is individualized and catered to each patient’s needs.