An interesting discussion with a passionate advocate for MAT expansion and the most prominent advocate for the “new paradigm“:

What is the process for successfully integrating these 2 approaches? What are the biggest hurdles providers face when accomplishing this goal?

Dr DuPont: The biggest hurdle is the staff reluctance, even the staff distaste, for the integration of an alternative as an option for patients who want it. There is an ideological and visceral rejection of the integration at the start that is challenging. But with gentle persistence, it has been overcome and the patients have benefited.  

Dr Poland: I also find that patients are a bit reluctant to share their experiences with 12-Step—good or bad—somehow, they’re expecting a reaction from me—either insistence they go or disdain for the program. Again, being open and nonjudgmental about what works for an individual allows us to best care for them. And, I’ve definitely learned a lot from my patients about how to integrate the 2 modalities in a way that complements each other.

I’m looking for a recording.