Does OHIP Cover Addiction Treatment? A Full Guide to Costs in Ontario

Arrow Medical is committed to providing low-barrier care. This means no waitlists, no appointments, and no cost for our services. This guide will explain exactly what parts of your addiction treatment OHIP covers.

What Addiction Services Does OHIP Cover?

The Government of Ontario has recognized that addiction is a medical condition requiring professional care. Therefore, OHIP covers a wide range of essential services.

1. Doctor’s Visits and Medical Assessments
Your journey at Arrow Medical begins with a comprehensive assessment from a physician specializing in addiction medicine. All visits with our doctors are fully covered by your OHIP card. This includes:

• Initial assessments and treatment planning.
• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
• Ongoing medical management of your treatment plan.

There is no cost to you for the time you spend with our expert medical team.

2. Opioid Agonist Treatment (OAT) Medications
The medications that form the foundation of opioid addiction treatment are covered.

• Methadone: Methadone treatment is covered by OHIP.
• Suboxone (Buprenorphine/Naloxone): Suboxone is also covered under the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) program for those who are eligible (e.g., recipients of Ontario Works, ODSP, trillium drug benefits, or seniors). For others, it may be covered by private insurance or other provincial programs. Our team can help you navigate this.
• Kadian (Slow-Release Morphine): Similar to Suboxone, Kadian is often covered by the ODB program or private plans.

3. Sublocade Injections
Sublocade, the monthly buprenorphine injection, is a highly effective treatment option. It is covered by most private insurance plans and through some provincial programs. Our administrative staff are experts at navigating insurance and can help you with the paperwork to get coverage.

4. Hepatitis C Treatment
It is very common for individuals who use drugs also to have hepatitis C. Recognizing this, we provide integrated care. OHIP covers modern, highly effective treatments for hepatitis C. You can get diagnosed and cured of hepatitis C at our clinics while stabilizing your addiction, all at no cost. You can learn more about our dual-diagnosis approach here.

What About Safe Opioid Supply?

Safe Opioid Supply programs, which may involve prescribing pharmaceutical-grade opioids like hydromorphone (Dilaudid), are a key part of our harm reduction strategy. The medications prescribed in this program are also typically covered by the Ontario Drug Benefit program. This ensures that this life-saving harm reduction service is accessible.

The Arrow Medical Promise: No Financial Barriers

We understand that navigating healthcare coverage can be a complex and confusing process. That’s why our teams in Toronto, Barrie, Bancroft, and Crystal Beach are here to help.

• No Hidden Fees: We will never charge you for our insured medical services.
• Help with Coverage: If a specific medication requires paperwork for coverage, our team will assist you with every step. We are experts at this.
• Focus on Your Health: We handle the administrative side so you can focus on what matters most—your health and recovery.

Your OHIP card is your key to accessing compassionate, evidence-based addiction care. Don’t let financial worries stop you from taking the first step. Walk into any Arrow Medical clinic today and let us help you start your journey to a healthier life. It costs you nothing to get started.