Harney adheres to strict regulations regarding methadone clinics, outlined by the Oregon Health Authority’s Addictions and Mental Health Division (AMH). These regulations ensure that clinics provide safe, effective, and ethical treatment for individuals struggling with opioid addiction. To operate legally, methadone clinics must undergo a rigorous certification process, which includes:
- Obtaining a license from the AMH
- Demonstrating compliance with state and federal regulations
- Employing qualified healthcare professionals
- Implementing comprehensive treatment protocols
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with methadone offers numerous benefits for individuals with opioid use disorders, such as:
- Reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Decreasing the risk of relapse and overdose
- Improving overall health and quality of life
- Facilitating engagement in behavioral therapies and support services
Methadone clinics in Harney operate under the supervision of licensed physicians and provide daily doses of methadone to patients. The clinics also offer counseling, case management, and other supportive services to promote long-term recovery. The primary purpose of these clinics is to help individuals overcome opioid addiction, reduce the risk of infectious diseases, and improve their overall well-being.
Insurance Coverage
Harney County is home to several free methadone clinics that provide treatment to individuals regardless of their ability to pay. These clinics are funded by government grants, private donations, and other sources to ensure accessibility to those in need.
In addition to free clinics, many methadone clinics in Harney accept various forms of insurance, including:
- Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid)
- Medicare
- Private insurance plans (e.g., Blue Cross Blue Shield, Moda Health, Providence Health Plan)
Insurance coverage for methadone treatment varies depending on the specific plan and provider. Some plans may cover the full cost of treatment, while others may require copayments or have limitations on the duration of coverage. It is essential for individuals seeking methadone treatment to contact their insurance provider and the clinic directly to determine their coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses.
Drug Use in Harney
The opioid crisis in Harney has been declared a public health emergency by the Oregon Health Authority. According to the Oregon Health Authority:
In 2020, there were 462 drug overdose deaths in Oregon, a 39.6% increase from 2019
Opioids, including prescription painkillers and heroin, were involved in 360 (77.9%) of these deaths
The prevalence of substance use in Harney County in 2020 was:
- Alcohol: 53.7%
- Marijuana: 17.3%
- Opioids (prescription and illicit): 3.5%
- Methamphetamine: 2.1%
- Cocaine: 0.9%
Addiction Treatment Overview
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient treatment involves living at a residential facility and receiving 24-hour care and support. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), inpatient treatment typically lasts 30, 60, or 90 days and includes:
- Medical detoxification
- Individual and group therapy
- Medication management
- Recreational activities and life skills training
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment allows individuals to live at home while attending treatment sessions at a clinic or facility. SAMHSA reports that outpatient treatment varies in intensity and may involve:
- Individual and group counseling
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Support groups
- Sessions ranging from a few hours per week to several hours per day, depending on the program
Treatment Level Unreported
The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy estimates that only about 10% of individuals with substance use disorders receive specialized treatment. Many individuals may receive support through self-help groups, primary care providers, or other non-specialized services.
Comparison of Treatment in Harney vs. Neighboring Major City
| City | # of Treatment Facilities | Inpatient Beds Available | Approximate Cost of Treatment (30 Days) |
| Harney | 2 | 15 | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Bend | 12 | 80 | $15,000 – $30,000 |
Methadone Treatment
What is Methadone
Methadone is a medication used in opioid treatment programs (OTPs) as part of a comprehensive approach to treating opioid use disorder. As an opioid agonist, methadone works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as other opioids, such as heroin or prescription painkillers, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same intense “high.” Despite its proven effectiveness, methadone treatment often faces societal stigma and misconceptions. In simple terms, methadone helps individuals with opioid addiction by stabilizing their brain chemistry, allowing them to focus on recovery and rebuild their lives.
Methadone Distribution
Methadone distribution is subject to strict monitoring and regulations to ensure patient safety and prevent diversion. These include:
- Urine testing: Methadone maintenance patients must undergo at least eight tests in the first year of treatment.
- Take-home requirements: During the first 14 days of treatment, the take-home Supply of methadone is limited to a 24-hour Supply.
- Monitoring: Methadone treatment programs should have an interprofessional team.
- Prescription drug monitoring: Clinicians should review prescription drug monitoring (PDMP) data to cross-reference opioid titration dosage carefully, as methadone has a narrow therapeutic index.
In Harney, methadone is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, indicating a high potential for abuse but accepted medical use in treatment with severe restrictions.
Methadone Treatment Effectiveness Research
Methadone is an effective medication for treating opioid use disorder used since 1947.
Evidence for Effectiveness:
Studies show methadone reduces opioid use, disease transmission, and crime. Patients receiving methadone treatment have 33% fewer opioid-positive drug tests and are 4.44 times more likely to stay in treatment compared to those not receiving methadone. Retention in treatment reduces the risk of overdose and disease transmission while increasing employment rates.
Major Drawbacks:
Despite its effectiveness, methadone treatment has some potential drawbacks. These include the risk of misuse or diversion, severe withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly, possible QTc prolongation or cardiac issues, and the risk of respiratory depression or overdose when combined with other substances.
Comparison to Other Medications:
Research indicates that methadone is equally effective as buprenorphine for reducing opioid use.
Conclusion:
Methadone offers significant benefits in treating opioid use disorder but also carries risks that require careful management.
About Harney
Harney is a county located in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of Oregon. It borders the following counties and states:
- Grant County, Oregon to the north
- Malheur County, Oregon to the east
- Humboldt County, Nevada to the south
- Lake County, Oregon to the west
The county seat and largest city is Burns. Harney County covers a vast land area of 10,226 square miles (26,485 km²), making it the largest county in Oregon by area. The county has a limited infrastructure due to its rural nature, with most of the road network consisting of state highways and rural roads. The county is served by the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport in Pendleton.
Population Statistics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the total population of Harney County is 7,495, making it one of the least populous counties in Oregon.
Demographics:
Gender:
- Female: 48.6%
- Male: 51.4%
Age brackets:
- Under 18 years: 21.2%
- 18-64 years: 57.1%
- 65 years and over: 21.7%
Occupations:
- Management, business, science, and arts: 28.9%
- Service: 20.4%
- Sales and office: 20.1%
- Natural resources, construction, and maintenance: 18.3%
- Production, transportation, and material moving: 12.3%