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Federal Requirements for Prescribing
Physicians must complete an 8-hour training and NPs/PAs 24 hours of training to apply for a DEA “X-waiver” to prescribe buprenorphine.
In 2021, new guidelines allowed providers to skip the training and treat up to 30 patients after submitting a Notice of Intent to SAMHSA.
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Federal Requirements for Prescribing
Limits on the number of patients a practitioner may treat with buprenorphine have been removed, and SAMHSA will no longer accept Notices of Intent for X-waiver registration.
(480) 764 - 2335
The 4 Phases of Buprenorphine Treatment
Initiation – Screen using validated tools like the DSM-5 OUD Checklist. Educate patients and obtain consent.
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Induction – Patients abstain from opioids for 12-24 hrs and begin buprenorphine when in moderate withdrawal. Can be done in-office or at home with telehealth guidance.
The 4 Phases of Buprenorphine Treatment
Stabilization – Titrate dose over 1-2 weeks until cravings subside without side effects. Typically 8-24 mg/day.
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Maintenance – Continue stable dose with monthly check-ins. Frequency can decrease over time if the patient is doing well. Pair with counseling.
Logistical Considerations
Identify local behavioral health and social service partners for referrals.
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Establish relationships with pharmacies experienced in dispensing buprenorphine.
Utilize team members like nurses to assist with initial screening and ongoing monitoring.
Logistical Considerations
EHRs can be customized for buprenorphine treatment notes and state PDMP queries.
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Designate time slots for OUD visits and start with a small number of patients.
Arizona Medicaid (AHCCCS) and most private insurers cover buprenorphine with prior authorization.
At Nirvana Recovery Arizona, we can fight the opioid crisis problem thorugh
Intensive Outpatient Program
Partial Hospitalization Program
Residential Treatment
Aftercare Support
Interventions & Detox
Whether you or a family member needs help, our team of caring professionals are available to help.