Finding Treatment at Free Methadone Clinics

As there are many paid methadone treatment clinics all over the country, free methadone clinics are more difficult to find. The research involved in looking for these clinics can be extensive and can take time and effort. While many individuals who are in need of immediate assistance should consider other, paid options, free methadone clinics can be found with some research. Here are some ways to find treatment at these facilities.

Who is Running Free Methadone Clinics

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, “data show that private nonprofit organizations operated the majority of facilities offering ‘all free’ care and ‘partial free’ facilities (73.8 and 68.1 percent, respectively).” Many free methadone clinics are run by nonprofit or government administrations. This is one reason why there can be fewer of them in certain areas.

Methadone Clinic Directories

Free clinics are available to help those in financial strain achieve recovery from addiction.

It is important to spend time researching different clinics to find the one that is right for you. A listing of the clinics by state can be very helpful when researching the options available. Most have a phone number you can call or a website. Learn about the different options available and ask questions.

Other Resources

There are many resources to reach out to when looking for a free methadone clinic. Some possible aids are:

• SAMHSA‘s National Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (including holidays). They can help refer you to your state office or local treatment facilities, as well as “to facilities that charge on a sliding fee scale or accept Medicare or Medicaid.” This is an important resource in researching free and low-cost methadone clinics.
• Low income government clinics can also be good sources when looking for a free methadone clinic. A health professional there may be able to refer you to a clinic that is close to you.

Criteria for Free Methadone Clinic Patient

Some free methadone treatment clinics admit patients based on income, poverty level, family life, or other criteria. It is important to do research on a specific facility before visiting, especially if going to the facility entails a long travel. Some clinics, though, have no specific criteria for patients. According to the National Library of Medicine, a free-to-clients methadone clinic in Seattle, WA, “unlike other funded treatment slots, did not require proof of eligibility based on documentation of indigence.” It is important to know what the clinic will need from you as a potential patient.

There are treatment options available for those seeking free methadone clinics. However, they are difficult to find and often not extremely close to many people. When searching for a methadone treatment center, it is important to remember that there are many resources available to help you find the right facility. If you have the time to do the research, it is possible to find a free methadone clinic to help you through your addiction and eventual recovery.