Opioid Use Disorder Specialists: 4 Questions To Ask

Getting help for opioid use disorder (OUD) takes courage and commitment. Because of stigma and fear of being judged or criticized, many people who use opioids hesitate to ask for help. On top of that, false myths and misconceptions about OUD can make the process even harder.

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Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or someone you love, finding an OUD specialist who respects your journey can make all the difference.

Preparing questions for your next appointment can also help you feel more confident and informed about OUD and the treatment options that are available. If you’re unsure what to ask, here are a few questions to get you started.

What Is an Opioid Use Disorder Specialist?

An OUD specialist is a healthcare provider with training and experience treating OUD. These doctors are also called addiction medicine physicians. These specialists are trained in addiction medicine, which focuses on treating substance use disorders like OUD.

In addition to addiction medicine specialists, there are also primary care providers, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners who may also be trained and certified to prescribe medication for OUD (MOUD), also called medication-assisted treatment (MAT).

OUD specialists or addiction medicine physicians often don’t work alone in treating OUD. They also work alongside other health professionals like counselors, psychologists, nurses, nurse practitioners, social workers, and other professionals who provide comprehensive support.

How To Find an Opioid Use Disorder Specialist

To find a provider who specializes in OUD, it may be helpful to ask your primary care provider for a referral or recommendation. You can also research specialists online or search for local opioid treatment centers — this is where some specialists provide care for OUD.

If you have trouble finding a specialist, your primary care provider may also be able to prescribe medication for OUD. However, some medications require specialized training or can only be prescribed at a certified treatment center. While your primary care provider may not offer the same comprehensive care as a specialist, they may be able to start you on treatment and guide you toward additional support.

Questions To Ask an Opioid Use Disorder Specialist

The questions you bring to an appointment will depend on your personal needs and goals. The following examples are meant to give you a starting point. Feel free to adapt or add your own so you have a list that feels right for you.

1. How Does Treatment Work for Opioid Use Disorder?

Treatment options for OUD can include medications, therapy, and support programs (such as Narcotics Anonymous).

Since there are multiple medication options for OUD, it can be difficult to know which is best for you without guidance. You may want to know:

• “How do the different medications for OUD work?”
• “Which medication is best suited for me?”
• “What are the risks, benefits, and side effects?”
• “Can you recommend therapists or local programs that can provide support?”

This is all important information to discuss with your provider. They’ll be able to break down the different options and answer any questions.

You can also ask practical questions about treatment options:

• “What should I do if I don’t have health insurance or if my insurance doesn’t cover opioid use disorder treatment?”
• “Are there any local treatment or support resources you recommend?”
• “Is there anything else I should know about starting or continuing treatment for OUD?”

2. How Can I Manage Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms?

For many people, the first step in the treatment process is opioid detoxification (detox) — a process of medically supervised withdrawal from opioids. Detox can involve serious withdrawal symptoms like nausea, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, sweating, diarrhea, and more. These symptoms can be uncomfortable, but asking your specialist what to expect and how you can manage opioid withdrawal symptoms can help you feel more prepared.

Some medications for OUD can ease withdrawal symptoms and make the process safer and more manageable. Be sure to ask how your treatment plan will address withdrawal and what support is available during this stage.

Here are some additional questions you could ask about withdrawal:

• “Will I experience withdrawal symptoms under your recommended treatment plan?”
• “What withdrawal symptoms should I expect?”
• “Are cravings likely to be part of withdrawal?”
• “If so, how do I manage cravings?”

3. What Does Long-Term Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder Look Like?

Consistent care is important for managing OUD because it provides symptom relief and helps you achieve and maintain recovery. It’s natural to have questions about what to expect and what treatment will be like in the long term.

Long-term treatment for OUD often looks different for each person. For some, it may involve continuing to take MOUD for months or even years — as long as the medication continues to provide benefits. Others may focus on therapy, peer support groups, or lifestyle changes that help maintain sobriety. Over time, cravings and withdrawal symptoms become less overwhelming, and recovery becomes more about building a stable, fulfilling life.

You may also face new challenges — like needing safe pain management after an injury or surgery. Planning ahead with your healthcare team can help you navigate those situations without risking a return to opioids. Long-term treatment isn’t just about avoiding opioids — it’s also about creating healthy routines, setting goals, and finding support systems that can carry you forward.

Here are some questions you can ask about long-term recovery:

• “What does recovery look like in the long term for people with opioid use disorder?”
• “Will you help me set and track long-term goals for recovery?”
• “If I ever need pain management, what should I do to avoid prescription opioids?”
• “How often will I need follow-up appointments, and how might that change over time?”
• “Are there warning signs I should look out for that might mean I need extra support?”

4. What Support Is Available Outside of Office Visits if I Need Help Right Away?

Your doctor may not always be available when you’re in crisis or need urgent support for your OUD. While they can answer questions during office visits or through secure messages, it’s important to know what resources are available in between appointments.

You can prepare for emergencies or times when you need extra support by asking your doctor about:

• Hotlines or crisis lines you can call if you feel unsafe or overwhelmed.
• Harm reduction services you can turn to quickly for resources and support. These services aim to reduce negative effects from drug use.
• Emergency plans for what to do if you feel close to using opioids again.

Knowing these options ahead of time can make it easier to reach out when you need help the most.

It’s also a good idea to ask your doctor about receiving a prescription for naloxone. Naloxone is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. You can receive it by prescription or over the counter. It may also be available at certain community centers and even local bars.

Here are some questions you can ask about outside support and resources:

• “How do I use naloxone?”
• “Are there crisis hotlines or text lines you recommend for people with OUD?”
• “Where can I find local harm reduction services?”
• “What should my family or friends know about helping me in an emergency?”

The Importance of Asking Questions

It’s normal to feel nervous or even intimidated when talking to health professionals, especially if you’re worried about being judged. Because there is still stigma around OUD, opening up can feel difficult. But asking questions is an important part of your care.

When you ask questions, you take an active role in your or your loved one’s treatment. This helps build a collaborative relationship with your healthcare team.

Asking questions also ensures you find effective treatment that reflects your needs, values, and goals. The fact that you’ve taken the step to seek treatment and connect with an OUD specialist already shows courage. Asking questions is the first step toward recovery.

Join the Conversation

On MyOpioidRecoveryTeam, people share their experiences with opioid use disorder, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

What questions would you ask an opioid use disorder specialist? Let others know in the comments below.