Addiction Medicine in San Francisco

Over the last 8 years, Care Practice has grown into one of the largest outpatient addiction treatment programs in Northern California and one of the few private research institutions working on the next generation of addiction treatments. We have participated in several large clinical trials and research investigations partnering with major drug companies. In the past 2 years, we have performed leading clinical trials with Braeburn Pharmaceuticals, Reckitt Benckiser, Indivior, Orexo, and Biodelivery Sciences all focused on some form of Buprenorphine treatment and treating opiate addiction.

We specialize in the confidential and personalized treatment of Oxycontin, Heroin, Norco, Methadone, Vicodin, and Percocet. Our program offers convenient outpatient treatment of opiate addiction in an affordable program under the care of a Suboxone-certified physicians. We can often see patients the same day they make the decision to begin treatment. Our program is designed for motivated, high functioning individuals who have decided to end the cycle of addiction in their life. Dr. Blackledge originally encountered Suboxone through the struggles of a close childhood friend addicted to Oxycontin and Heroin. He was amazed by the positive effects this medication had for his friend and decided to investigate becoming a certified prescriber.

During this same period, Dr. Blackledge was creating the core concepts behind Care Practice and recognized that Suboxone was a powerful tool that he wanted to be a fundamental part of the primary care model he was developing. He committed to providing the lowest unsubsidized prices in San Francisco to improve access for Bay Area patients. Over the years, we have developed a unique approach for getting patients off Suboxone, for rapid methadone conversions within days, and management of post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).

How much does the program cost?

We charge a flat rate of $399 to begin all our outpatient treatment programs. The process is fairly straightforward in most cases. Our doctors are available after hours to answer your questions during this initial process. As primary care doctors, we are also happy to include minor medical management of other common conditions when appropriate at limited costs. We require an upfront deposit of $50 or credit card number to reserve your appointment which can be deducted from the initial visit. Unfortunately, we had to add this deposit due to a high no-show rate.

1. Buprenorphine / Suboxone Program: Induction and stabilization onto the medication costs $399, then regular monthly visits occur at a rate of $165.

2. Methadone Conversion to Buprenorphine: We can usually accomplish this within just a few days. It requires one extra visit in the first week of treatment that costs $165 (on top of the $399 start fee).

3. Vivitrol/ Naltrexone Program: Alcohol treatment or opiate maintenance treatment begins with an initial visit where we usually begin patients on oral Naltrexone pills. If necessary, vivitrol injections cost $780 but are generally covered by insurance. Ongoing monthly visits (once you've arranged with your insurance company to continue these shots) are $195.

I'm dubious of doctors trying to treat my addiction because they gave me the first prescription.

We feel you. Read more about our own misgivings here to better understand our unique approach.

Induction and Stabilization on Suboxone: $399

Monthly follow-up visit and refill: $165