Rules and Regulations
Victorville, San Bernardino, California adheres to strict federal and state regulations regarding methadone clinics, outlined by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the California Department of Health Care Services.
Certification Procedures
- Clinics must be certified by SAMHSA and licensed by the state
- Staff must meet educational and licensing requirements
- Regular facility inspections ensure compliance with regulations
Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment
- Methadone and other medications help mitigate withdrawal and cravings
- Clinics provide counseling and support services
Treatment has been shown to:
- Reduce illicit opioid use and criminal activity
- Lower risk of overdose
- Help people regain functioning in work, family, and social contexts
How Clinics Operate and Their Purpose
Methadone clinics provide medication, health services, counseling, and case management to help patients with an opioid use disorder achieve recovery. Patients must visit the clinic daily to receive their prescribed methadone dose. Over time, patients may earn take-home doses as they achieve treatment milestones.
Insurance Coverage
Many clinics accept various forms of insurance including Medicaid and Medicare. Some clinics offer treatment on a sliding fee scale based on income for those without insurance. Grants and public funding also help support affordable treatment services. Contact your local clinic for details on payment options.
Drug Use in Victorville
In 2017, there were 550 opioid-related deaths in San Bernardino County, a rate of 13.2 per 100,000 persons. This was higher than the statewide rate of 4.9 deaths per 100,000.
Statistics on Drug Overdoses and Deaths
- The most commonly abused substances in San Bernardino County are alcohol, marijuana, methamphetamine, and prescription opioids.
- Alcohol contributes to 31% of driving deaths in the county.
Addiction Treatment Overview
Inpatient Treatment
- Inpatient facilities provide 24/7 care and monitoring for people overcoming addiction.
- Typical stays range from 30-90 days depending on individual needs. Facilities provide counseling, group therapy, medical care, and other services.
Outpatient Treatment
- Outpatient programs provide periodic services for 2-4 hours per day for people who do not require residential care.
- Services take place in centers located in communities for ease of access.
Treatment Level Unreported
An estimated 18% of people with addictions in the county have unreported treatment levels.
Comparison of Treatment in Victorville vs. Riverside
| Category | Victorville | Riverside |
| Treatment centers | 15 | 32 |
| Inpatient beds | 124 | 502 |
| Cost of treatment | $15,000 | $20,000 |
Methadone Treatment
What is Methadone
Methadone is an opioid medication used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs, also known as opioid treatment programs (OTPs), to treat opioid use disorder. It binds to opioid receptors and reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It is taken orally once daily in supervised medical settings.
Methadone Distribution
Methadone distribution is carefully monitored and regulated:
- Urine Testing: Methadone maintenance patients must undergo at least eight tests in the first year of treatment to ensure appropriate use.
- Take-Home Requirements: During the first 14 days of treatment, the take-home supply of methadone is limited to a 24-hour supply. After 90 days of treatment, patients who meet certain criteria may take home a 14-day supply.
- Monitoring: Methadone treatment programs should have an interprofessional team including physicians, nurses, counselors, and social workers to provide comprehensive care.
- Prescription Drug Monitoring: Clinicians should review prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) data to carefully cross-reference opioid dosage, as methadone has a narrow therapeutic window and overdose risk.
In San Bernardino County, methadone is a Schedule II controlled prescription drug, with strict regulations around distribution.
Methadone Treatment Effectiveness Research
Methadone has been used to treat opioid addiction since 1947. Studies show it is effective in:
- Reducing opioid use based on drug tests (33% fewer opioid-positive drug tests compared to non-medication treatments)
- Retaining patients in treatment (4.44 times more likely to stay in treatment compared to non-medication options)
- Decreasing disease transmission and criminal behavior risks
However, methadone does carry risks: potential for misuse/diversion, severe withdrawal if stopped suddenly, QTc prolongation and cardiac issues, and respiratory depression/overdose when combined with other substances. Careful patient selection and monitoring is required.
Overall, methadone is as effective as buprenorphine in reducing opioid use and retaining patients in treatment. The benefits outweigh the risks when appropriately managed.
About Victorville
Location, County & List of Neighboring States
Victorville is located in San Bernardino County in the U.S. state of California. It borders the states of Arizona, Nevada, and the Pacific Ocean.
- Arizona (east)
- Nevada (northeast)
- Pacific Ocean (west)
Capital and Largest City
The capital and largest city in California is Sacramento.
Land Area
Victorville covers approximately 73 square miles.
Population Statistics
Total Population
The population of Victorville is approximately 125,000 as of the latest census data.
Demographics:
Gender
- Male: 51%
- Female: 49%
Age Brackets
- Under 18 years: 29%
- 18 to 64 years: 59%
- 65 years and over: 12%
Occupations
- Management, business, science, and arts occupations: 32%
- Service occupations: 26%
- Sales and office occupations: 24%
- Natural resources, construction, and maintenance occupations: 13%
- Production, transportation, and material moving occupations: 5%
