TELEHEALTH CARE AND BRIGHTVIEW VIRTUAL

WHAT DO I NEED TO SUCCEED IN BRIGHTVIEW VIRTUAL?

To enroll in BrightView Virtual, patients will need access to a PC, laptop, tablet, or smartphone with a front-facing camera and microphone. They will also need a reliable internet connection through wi-fi or mobile data, and they will need Chrome, Safari, or Firefox downloaded (some programs are not supported on Internet Explorer). Patients will also need a private area where they can interact with medical and clinical providers without being overheard. Please note that a safe storage area for medications and toxicology supplies is also important.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What if I get disconnected from my provider or experience technical difficulties during my visit?
If you experience technical difficulties with sound or video, a member of our team may ask you to exit the video chat so they can re-start the session. If you accidentally exit the chat or virtual exam room before all your appointments are complete, please re-click the link from the text or email you received to re-enter the Backline chat.

What side effects may occur with Buprenorphine?
Side effects include constipation or sedation. Be careful when operating a vehicle after taking buprenorphine. Let your provider know if you experience any change in bowel movements. Other side effects such as headaches, nausea and vomiting are possible but less likely to occur. Abruptly stopping the medication will lead to signs and symptoms of withdrawal (nausea, vomiting, chills, anxiety, etc.). It is important to continue the medication as prescribed and work with your provider regarding any dose changes.

Buprenorphine can cause life threatening respiratory depression and sedation if it is taken with other sedatives. Other sedatives include, but are not limited to: alcohol, benzodiazepines, sleeping medications, etc. Attempts to override the buprenorphine by taking more opioids could result in an opioid overdose. Some other medications may affect the levels of buprenorphine in your body. In general, it is important to discuss any new medication or change with your buprenorphine prescriber. Antibiotics, antifungals, and antiviral medications especially should be discussed with your provider.

How should I store my Buprenorphine or other prescribed medication?
Even a small amount of buprenorphine can be extremely dangerous, especially to a child. Always keep these medicines stored in the original container. Always keep these medicines out of sight and out of the reach of children in a locked box or cabinet. Call Poison Control right away at 1-800-222-1222 if someone has ingested these medicines. Call Poison Control to find out the safest way to dispose of these medicines.

Is Buprenorphine treatment trading one addiction for another?
No. With successful buprenorphine treatment the compulsive behavior, the loss of control, the constant cravings, and all of the other hallmarks of addiction dissipate. When all signs and symptoms of the disease of addiction dissipate, we call that remission—not switching addictions. The key to understanding this is knowing the difference between physical dependence and addiction. Buprenorphine will maintain some of the pre-existing physical dependence but that is easily managed medically. Physical dependence, unlike addiction, is not a dangerous medical condition that requires treatment. Addiction is damaging and life-threatening, while physical dependence is an inconvenience and is normal physiology for anyone taking large doses of opioids for an extended period of time. It is essential to understand the definition of addiction and how it differs from physical dependence or tolerance.