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MAT Program Philosophy
MAT: Medication Assisted Treatment
Echoes of Hope LLC recognizes that opioid use disorder (OUD) and other substance use disorders are chronic medical conditions that respond well to integrated treatment. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is offered as part of a comprehensive recovery program that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling, peer support, and case management.
Our MAT program is grounded in harm reduction, client-centered care, and trauma- informed principles. We view MAT as a critical tool for stabilizing individuals, reducing overdose risk, and supporting long-term recovery-especially for clients experiencing homelessness or recent incarceration.
Eligibility and screening
Policy Statement:
Clients are screened for MAT eligibility based on medical necessity, diagnosis, and motivation to engage in services. MAT is voluntary and provided only with informed consent.
Procedure:
1. During the intake or clinical assessment, a licensed provider evaluates the client for MAT suitability.
2. Clients must meet DSM-5 criteria for opioid use disorder or other relevant substance use diagnosis.
3. Medical clearance is obtained through physical exam, urinalysis, and laboratory testing (if required).
4. Pregnancy screening is required for female clients of reproductive age.
5. Clients are educated about risks, benefits, and alternatives to MAT.
MAT Housing and Integration
Clients receiving MAT who are also housed through Echoes of Hope are required to:
- Store all medications in secured lockboxes
- Comply with all medication management and curfew policies
- Attend all scheduled appointments and check-ins
- Report any medication diversion or misuse in housing
Coordination of Care
Echoes of Hope works in collaboration with:
- Primary care providers
- Pharmacies
- Probation/parole officers (as authorized)
- Outside MAT programs if transitioning care
Medications Offered
Medication type and dose are determined individually based on clinical evaluation.
Echoes of Hope may offer the following FDA-approved medications:
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone or other formulations)
- Naltrexone (oral or Vivitrol injection)
- Other approved medications based on physician discretion and state regulations
Induction and Maintenance
Procedure:
1. Induction is conducted under supervision of a qualified prescriber (MD, DO, NP, or PA).
2. Vital signs, withdrawal symptoms, and substance use history are assessed prior to the first dose.
3. Clients are observed for stabilization and adverse effects.
4. Maintenance treatment includes:
- Regular follow-ups with prescriber
- Participation in individual or group therapy
- Case management and peer support
- Drug screening per policy
Diversion Control and Drug Testing
Policy Statement:
MAT medications are highly regulated and Echoes of Hope has a zero-tolerance policy for diversion.
​Procedure:
1. Random drug screens are conducted at least monthly, more frequently if clinically indicated.
2. Clients may be asked to bring medication for pill counts.
3. Any suspected diversion, selling, or misuse will result in:
- Immediate clinical review
- Treatment team meeting
- Possible discharge or level-of-care change
4. Tamper-evident packaging and daily medication logs may be used if diversion risk is high.