Best Addiction Medicine Doctors in Port St. Lucie

Introduction to Addiction Medicine in Port St. Lucie

Overview of Addiction Medicine

Addiction medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of substance use disorders and other addictive behaviors. In Port St. Lucie, as in many other cities, addiction medicine plays a significant role in addressing the complex health issues related to substance abuse and addiction.

Seeking specialized care for addiction issues is essential for several reasons. Addiction medicine specialists have the expertise to provide comprehensive care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. They can offer evidence-based treatments, manage withdrawal symptoms, and develop personalized recovery plans tailored to each patient's needs.

The Role of Addiction Medicine Specialists

Addiction medicine specialists in Port St. Lucie treat a wide range of conditions, including alcohol use disorder, opioid addiction, and other substance use disorders. They also address behavioral addictions and co-occurring mental health disorders that often accompany addiction.

These specialists often work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care. This may include partnering with primary care physicians, psychiatrists, therapists, and social workers to address all aspects of a patient's health and well-being during the recovery process.

Choosing an Addiction Medicine Specialist in Port St. Lucie

Factors to Consider

Credentials and Certifications

• Review board certifications (e.g., American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology)
• Check for specialized training in addiction medicine

Experience and Specialization

• Evaluate years of practice in addiction medicine
• Consider subspecialties (e.g., Addiction Psychiatry, Substance Abuse Counseling)

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews
• Read patient testimonials for insights into care quality

Accessibility and Location

• Consider proximity to Port St. Lucie
• Evaluate office hours and availability

Insurance and Payment Options

Verifying Insurance Coverage

• Contact insurance provider to confirm in-network status
• Understand coverage limits for addiction medicine services

Exploring Payment Alternatives

• Inquire about sliding scale fees
• Discuss payment plans or financing options

Top-Ranked Addiction Medicine Specialists in Port St. Lucie

Dr. Charles Buscema

Background and Qualifications

• Medical degree from Albany Medical College
• Board-certified by American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology
• Specializes in Addiction Psychiatry

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 3.5-star rating based on 13 patient reviews
• Experienced in various psychiatric specialties

Contact Information

• Phone: (772) 618-0505
• HealthGrades profile available for more information

Magalys Koch, LCSW

Areas of Expertise

• Social Work
• Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling
• Psychotherapy

Language Capabilities

• Fluent in English and Spanish

Patient Feedback

• 3.2-star rating from 11 patient reviews

James English, CAS

Specialization

• Focused on Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling

Contact Details

• Phone: (561) 371-9315

Chasity Chandler, LMHC

Comprehensive Services

• Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling
• Psychotherapy
• Marriage & Family Therapy
• Individual and Group Counseling

Additional Expertise

• Behavioral Therapy
• Grief and Bereavement Counseling
• Relationship and Couples Counseling

Additional Resources for Finding Addiction Medicine Specialists

Online Directories and Platforms

Healthgrades

• Overview of Healthgrades as a resource
• How to use Healthgrades to find addiction medicine specialists in Port St. Lucie

Other Healthcare Provider Databases

• List of reputable healthcare provider databases
• Tips for effectively using these platforms

Local Medical Associations and Organizations

Florida Society of Addiction Medicine

• Overview of the organization
• How to use their resources to find specialists in Port St. Lucie

St. Lucie County Medical Society

• Information about local medical community
• Potential resources for finding addiction medicine specialists

Referrals and Recommendations

Primary Care Physician Referrals

• Importance of consulting with your primary care doctor
• How to ask for a referral to an addiction medicine specialist

Support Groups and Community Organizations

• Local addiction support groups in Port St. Lucie
• How these groups can provide recommendations and insights