Your First Virtual Suboxone Appointment: What to Expect

To get the most out of your virtual Suboxone appointment, please ensure you have a device that can connect to the internet and supports video calls. Most of our patients use a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer with a working camera and microphone. Make sure your device is fully charged or plugged in to avoid any interruptions during your appointment.

A reliable internet connection is important for clear audio and video throughout your visit. Before your appointment, Marcellus Wellness & Addiction will let you know which telehealth platform we’ll be using—commonly Zoom, Doxy.me, or our secure telemedicine app. If a specific app is required, please download and install it in advance. Have your login information ready, and check if you need to create an account before your appointment.

You will receive your appointment link by email or text from our office. We recommend testing your device, camera, microphone, and the telehealth platform before your scheduled visit to make sure everything is working properly. If you have any questions about the technology requirements or need assistance setting up, please contact Marcellus Wellness & Addiction ahead of your appointment.

Preparing for your first Suboxone virtual appointment with Marcellus Wellness & Addiction is an important step to ensure you receive the most effective treatment. To help make your appointment smooth and productive, here are some key preparation steps:

First, gather your medical records and past prescriptions. Your provider will need a comprehensive understanding of your medical history, especially related to addiction treatment. This includes any previous treatments you’ve undergone, such as detox programs or other medications you’ve used for opioid addiction. Having this information available will help your provider develop a tailored treatment plan. If you’ve previously been prescribed Suboxone or other medications for addiction, be sure to have those records handy.

Next, check your technology to ensure everything is working properly. Make sure your device—whether it’s a computer, tablet, or smartphone—is fully charged and has a stable internet connection. Test your microphone and camera ahead of time, and ensure the virtual platform (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.) is set up and ready to use.

Prepare a quiet, private space for your appointment. This is especially important when discussing sensitive topics related to addiction. Ensure you’re in a comfortable environment where you can speak openly and without interruptions. It’s also a good idea to jot down any questions or concerns you may have about starting Suboxone treatment or the recovery process. This ensures you don’t forget important details during your session.

Finally, be ready to discuss your current health, any medications you’re taking, and your addiction history. This will allow us to assess your needs and adjust the Suboxone treatment accordingly. By preparing properly, you’ll ensure your first appointment is focused and productive, setting a solid foundation for your recovery journey.

Yes, it is highly recommended to have your medical records and past prescriptions ready for your Suboxone virtual appointment, especially when receiving care at Marcellus Wellness & Addiction. Suboxone is a medication commonly used to help manage opioid addiction, and having comprehensive health information available ensures that your provider can give you the best possible care.

Your medical records are important because they provide a detailed history of your health, previous treatments, and any conditions you may have had. For example, if you’ve previously undergone detox or have a history of opioid addiction, sharing this information helps your provider understand your treatment journey and assess the best approach for starting or continuing Suboxone therapy. Additionally, your past prescriptions are essential to help your provider track any previous treatments you’ve been on, such as opioid agonists or other medications for addiction, and to avoid potential interactions with Suboxone.

Before your virtual appointment, gather any documentation related to past prescriptions for opioid use or addiction treatment. If you’ve been prescribed Suboxone or any other medications for addiction in the past, having this information available will help your provider assess the proper dosage and treatment plan for you. If you have records from previous treatments or detox programs, be sure to mention these as well, as they are vital in determining the next steps in your care.

If you’re unsure where to find your medical records or prescription history, contact your primary care provider, addiction specialist, or pharmacist ahead of time to ensure you have everything you need. By having your medical records and past prescriptions ready, you’ll ensure that your Suboxone treatment is tailored to your needs and carried out with the best possible care and precision.

At Marcellus Wellness & Addiction, your safety is our top priority when starting Suboxone treatment for opioid use disorder. Before beginning Suboxone, our providers may recommend a series of lab tests to ensure that this medication is both safe and suitable for your individual health needs. Most commonly, we order liver function tests since Suboxone is processed by the liver, and any underlying liver conditions can affect how your body responds to the medication. We may also check your kidney function and screen for infectious diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV—conditions that are more prevalent among individuals with a history of substance use.

A urine drug screen is typically performed as well, both before you start Suboxone and periodically during your treatment. This helps our team confirm which substances are present in your system and monitor your progress throughout recovery.

During your time at Marcellus Wellness & Addiction, our providers may repeat some of these lab tests—especially if you have pre-existing health issues or develop symptoms that could be related to Suboxone. Ongoing monitoring of liver function is essential, as Suboxone can rarely cause liver problems. Regular follow-up visits and lab assessments allow us to keep your treatment both safe and effective.

If you have any questions or concerns about lab testing and Suboxone treatment, please don’t hesitate to speak with your provider. We’re here to support your recovery every step of the way, and we tailor our recommendations to fit your unique health needs.

If you are located outside of the Syracuse or Central New York area and are interested in booking an appointment with Marcellus Wellness & Addiction, your options may depend on our practice policies and the type of consultation you require. Many medical and behavioral health services—including those related to wellness, addiction, and recovery—can often be provided through telemedicine or virtual visits. This approach allows patients from outside the immediate region to connect with our specialists, including Dr. Jean-Jeffrey Marcellus.

However, please note that there may be restrictions based on state licensing regulations, insurance coverage, and the specific nature of your medical or behavioral health needs. We recommend contacting Marcellus Wellness & Addiction directly to inquire about appointment availability for out-of-town patients, the possibility of virtual consultations, and any necessary steps you should complete before scheduling.

Our staff is happy to answer your questions, provide details about our telehealth policies, and help determine whether a remote or in-person consultation is most appropriate for you. No matter your location, we are committed to guiding you through the process and supporting your journey toward wellness and recovery. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We serve clients from Bronx NY, Brooklyn NY, Manhattan NY, Queens NY, Rockville Centre NY, Staten Island NY, and surrounding areas.