If you or someone you care about is dealing with opioid use disorder (OUD), finding a doctor who can prescribe Buprenorphine/Naloxone is one of the most important steps toward recovery. But knowing where to start isn't always obvious. This guide walks you through exactly how to find a prescriber near you in 2026 — including in-person and telehealth options.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Buprenorphine/Naloxone?

As of 2023, the X-waiver requirement was eliminated. That means any doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant with a standard DEA license can now prescribe Buprenorphine/Naloxone. You no longer need to search specifically for "X-waivered" providers.

That said, not every provider chooses to prescribe it. Doctors who most commonly prescribe Buprenorphine/Naloxone include:

• Addiction medicine specialists — these doctors focus specifically on substance use disorders
• Psychiatrists — many treat OUD alongside mental health conditions
• Family medicine and internal medicine doctors — your primary care provider may be able to prescribe it
• Emergency medicine physicians — some emergency departments now start Buprenorphine/Naloxone and refer patients for ongoing care
• Pain management specialists — particularly for patients transitioning off full opioid agonists

If you already have a primary care doctor, it's worth asking if they can prescribe Buprenorphine/Naloxone directly. Many are willing but may not advertise this service.

How to Find a Buprenorphine/Naloxone Provider

There are several ways to locate a prescriber, and you don't have to rely on a single method. Here are your best options:

1. SAMHSA Treatment Locator

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) maintains a free provider directory at findtreatment.gov. You can search by ZIP code and filter for providers who offer medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). This is one of the most comprehensive databases available.

2. Your Insurance Directory

If you have insurance, check your plan's online provider directory. Search for "addiction medicine" or "opioid use disorder" as a specialty. Calling the member services number on the back of your insurance card can also connect you with in-network providers who prescribe Buprenorphine/Naloxone.

3. Zocdoc and Similar Platforms

Online scheduling platforms like Zocdoc let you search for addiction medicine specialists and book appointments online. You can filter by insurance accepted, location, and availability — which makes it easier to find someone quickly.

4. Ask for a Referral

Your current doctor, an urgent care clinic, or even a hospital social worker can refer you to a Buprenorphine/Naloxone prescriber. Don't hesitate to ask — this is a routine request in healthcare settings.

5. Telehealth Providers

Telehealth has made accessing Buprenorphine/Naloxone treatment significantly easier. Several platforms now specialize in OUD treatment and can prescribe Buprenorphine/Naloxone via video visits. This is especially helpful if you live in a rural area or have transportation barriers. Companies like Bicycle Health, Workit Health, and Groups Recover Together offer telehealth Buprenorphine/Naloxone prescriptions in many states.

Under current federal policy, providers can prescribe Buprenorphine/Naloxone via telehealth after an initial audio-visual evaluation. Some states may have additional requirements, so check your state's telehealth rules.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Knowing what to expect can reduce a lot of anxiety about that first visit. Here's a general overview:

• Medical history review — Your doctor will ask about your substance use history, current medications, and overall health.
• Physical exam — A basic exam may be performed, though telehealth visits may skip this.
• Discussion of treatment goals — Your provider will talk with you about what you want from treatment and what Buprenorphine/Naloxone can (and can't) do.
• Induction plan — You'll receive instructions on when and how to take your first dose. Typically, you need to wait at least 12 hours after your last opioid use to avoid precipitated withdrawal.
• Urine drug screen — Most providers will require a baseline drug test. This is standard and not punitive.
• Follow-up schedule — Expect more frequent visits early on (weekly or biweekly), with less frequent visits as your treatment stabilizes.

Most initial appointments last 30 to 60 minutes. Be honest with your provider about your use — they're there to help, not judge.

After You Get Your Prescription

Once your doctor writes a prescription for Buprenorphine/Naloxone, you'll need to fill it at a pharmacy. This can sometimes be the hardest part. Not every pharmacy stocks Buprenorphine/Naloxone, and availability can vary significantly depending on where you live.

Here are some tips for getting your prescription filled:

• Use Medfinder to check pharmacy stock near you before driving around
• Call ahead to confirm the pharmacy has your specific dose and formulation
• Ask your doctor's office for help — many have staff who can locate pharmacies with Buprenorphine/Naloxone in stock
• Consider mail-order pharmacy options if local availability is limited

If cost is a concern, check out our guide on how to save money on Buprenorphine/Naloxone, which covers coupons, discount cards, and patient assistance programs.

Final Thoughts

Finding a doctor who prescribes Buprenorphine/Naloxone is easier in 2026 than it's ever been. The elimination of the X-waiver, expanded telehealth options, and growing acceptance of medication-assisted treatment mean more providers are available than ever before. Whether you start with SAMHSA's locator, your insurance directory, or a telehealth platform, the important thing is to take that first step.

If you already have a prescription and need help finding a pharmacy that has Buprenorphine/Naloxone in stock, Medfinder can help you locate availability near you.