Medication Assisted Treatment for Substance Use Disorder

Berks Community Health Center (BCHC) provides personalized recommendations for Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which is outpatient treatment for substance use problems. MAT Services are available at the Penn Street, Rockland Street and  Liggett Avenue health center locations.

Utilizing harm reduction and holistic models, we provide person-centered services along the road to recovery from substance use disorders.  While abstinence is the long- term goal, we recognize that addiction is a lifelong relapsing condition and each patient’s treatment will be individualized.

MAT patients also establish a relationship with their primary care physician at BCHC and have access to all healthcare services we offer, further supporting their recovery goals. Our bilingual (English-Spanish) medical interpreter staff is on-site and translation services are available in all other languages by phone.  BCHC offers a sliding fee discount program that ensures inability to pay is never a barrier to receiving the care you need.

For more information about the MAT program, read below:

What are MAT treatments for Substance Use Disorders?

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Substance Use Disorders

• Buprenorphine/Suboxone helps patients with opioid dependence by helping to reduce withdrawal symptoms. Additional information about this type of treatment can be found here.
• Naltrexone/Vivitrol helps patients with opioid and alcohol dependence by decreasing the cravings for opioids or alcohol consumption. Treatment is non-addictive and the patient must be opioid and alcohol free for a period of time.  Additional information about this type of treatment can be found here.
• Nicotine Replacement Therapy helps patients with nicotine dependence by reducing withdrawal feelings and cravings. Additional information about this type of treatment can be found here.

What can I expect if I call for help with a substance use problem?

What to Expect

• Initial assessment completed over phone to determine if BCHC’s MAT services are right for you. If it is determined that you require a higher level of treatment, assistance will be offered in coordinating appropriate service.
• If it determined that BCHC’s MAT service is right for you, a face-to-face appointment will be scheduled within 24-48 hours, and you will be asked to complete a detailed evaluation which will include:
  • an overview of your specific MAT needs
  • completing  forms to request copies of medical records, behavioral health and/or substance abuse treatment records
  • changing your  primary care doctor to Berks Community Health Center.
• Also at this first appointment, we will review and discuss your current addiction needs and you will be given your first medical appointment.
• During your first medical visit you can expect to review and sign treatment contract, have a medical physical exam, urine drug screen, and labs. Depending on MAT services being sought, you may begin treatment at your initial medical appointment.

FAQs