MyChart
Opioids
Pain management
Both non-drug and drug treatments can successfully control pain, helping you feel more comfortable and get well faster. You and your doctors and nurses will decide which is right for you, including combining two or more methods.
If your provider considers a controlled substance to manage pain, it can include a prescription for an opioid, these include medications such as hydrocodone, oxycodone, fentanyl or morphine. It is critical to understand the risks and benefits associated with these prescriptions. Opioids are considered controlled substances with significant risks, including addiction, dependence, and other side effects. Opioid addiction is characterized by a powerful, compulsive urge to use an opioid drug, even when they are no longer required medically. Individuals who become addicted often prioritize getting and using these drugs over other activities, damaging their professional and personal relationships. When left untreated or not treated adequately, addiction can cause disability or premature death.
We want to ensure the best health outcomes for you, our patient. For this reason, if you are prescribed a controlled substance for chronic or daily use, your provider will closely monitor your medication use for your safety and the safety of our communities.
Risks of overdose
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), opioid-involved overdose deaths more than doubled from 2010-2017, increasing from approximately 21,089 to 47,600. Opioid deaths saw a significant jump in 2020 to 68,630, and again in 2021 with 80,411 deaths.
Opioid addiction
Do you think you or someone you love may be dependent on opioids? Addiction to opioids, also called Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) or Substance Use Disorder (SUD), is:
- A primary, chronic disease of the brain’s reward, memory, and related circuitry.
- More than a behavioral disorder.
Addiction can cause disability or premature death, especially when left untreated or not treated adequately. Like other health conditions, recovery from addiction is best achieved through a combination of self-management, mutual support and professional care.
Medication-assisted treatment at Welia Health
At Welia Health, we have a team of healthcare providers trained to prescribe medication to help individuals overcome opioid addiction. This is commonly known as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). MAT is the use of medication, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a “whole patient approach” to the treatment of substance use disorders.
What will these medications do?
These medications relieve the withdrawal symptoms and psychological effects of chemical imbalances in the body. They provide a safe and controlled level of medication to overcome the use of an abused opioid.
What can I expect from my first visit?
Members of Welia Health’s care team and a physician will meet with you to assess your suitability for MAT. If you are a suitable candidate, a plan of care will be developed with you and members of the team.
If you or someone you know has concerns with opioid or other prescription pain medication addiction, contact Welia Health’s controlled substance care team at 1.800.245.5671 or 320.679.1313.