Frequently asked questions

In North Carolina, you can request an appointment with this practice online and we'll confirm a time with you. Because care is delivered by video, you don't need a prescriber in your town — you need one licensed in your state. Nationally, SAMHSA's free 24/7 helpline (1-800-662-HELP) and FindTreatment.gov list options anywhere in the U.S.

Generally yes. Current federal and state rules permit buprenorphine prescribing after a telehealth evaluation, including for new patients. Rules in this area have changed several times, so your physician confirms what applies at your visit.

Same-day appointments are available. Send an appointment request and we'll tell you what is actually open, rather than putting you on a waitlist.

Yes — all five Standard Plans (UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, Healthy Blue, AmeriHealth Caritas, Carolina Complete Health, WellCare) and all four Behavioral Health Tailored Plans (Alliance, Partners, Trillium, Vaya).

Ask us about North Carolina Medicaid eligibility. Since expansion, many people who assume they don't qualify now do, and we can help you enroll.

No. Opioid use disorder is a medical condition, and buprenorphine treats it. Taking a prescribed medication that stabilizes your brain chemistry, under a physician's care, is treatment — not continued addiction. This is the position of the CDC, SAMHSA, and the American Society of Addiction Medicine.

It varies. Some people taper after a year or two; many stay on it longer, and that's a legitimate outcome rather than a failure. It's a decision you make with your physician based on how you're actually doing.

Not from us without your written consent. Substance use treatment records carry extra federal protection under 42 CFR Part 2, which is stricter than ordinary HIPAA.

Yes, transfers are common. Have your current dose and prior prescriber information ready for the first visit so we can continue you without a gap.

Yes. Relapse is part of the course of this illness for many people, and it's a reason to get care rather than to be denied it.

Counseling is genuinely helpful and we'll encourage and help arrange it, but medication is not withheld as leverage. Withholding effective treatment to enforce participation isn't sound medicine.

Timing matters — starting buprenorphine too early after a full opioid can cause precipitated withdrawal. Your physician will give you specific instructions on exactly when to take your first dose. Follow them closely and ask if anything is unclear.

Tell us everything you're using. It affects what's safe to prescribe, and co-occurring use is common. We'll address what we can and be direct about what needs a different setting.

Visits work over normal phone data or home Wi-Fi. If connection quality is a recurring problem, tell us and we'll work with what you have.

No. If you are having a medical emergency or overdose, call 911. For a mental-health or suicidal crisis, call or text 988. This website cannot respond to emergencies.