A Ride, a Refill, and a New Start

November 17, 2025

Maria (name changed for privacy) had been using fentanyl and taking methadone when she decided she was ready for a change. She wanted to stop using both and start Suboxone, a medication that can help people manage opioid use disorder. But switching to Suboxone isn’t easy. Before starting, Maria needed to stop taking any opioids for at least 48 to 72 hours, which can be extremely uncomfortable and even unsafe for someone in active use.

She tried to start the process on her own and had stopped taking methadone, but she wasn’t able to make it to her induction appointments. Eventually, she reconnected with our Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) case manager. By then, Maria was in crisis. She was distressed, still using, and at very high risk for overdose.

Our case manager quickly stepped in and coordinated with our MAT providers to make sure Maria could be seen that same day. They helped arrange transportation and helped build a plan she felt she could follow.

During her appointment, more barriers came up. Her medications had been stolen, and she couldn’t get to her usual pharmacy because she needed to walk everywhere. The case manager switched her prescription to a more accessible location, called the pharmacy to report stolen medications, advocated for a replacement prescription, and worked to make sure she could get everything filled that same day.

After the appointment, the case manager checked in again. Maria had made it home safely and picked up her medications. She’s now started microinductions for Suboxone, putting her on a much safer path and dramatically lowering her risk of overdose.

The case manager helped Maria move past the barriers by offering steady, nonjudgmental support. This kind of support gives our MAT patients the space they need to show up as they are and work toward better outcomes.