Best Addiction Medicine Doctors in Fort Wayne

Introduction to Addiction Medicine in Fort Wayne

Definition and scope of addiction medicine

Addiction medicine is a specialized field of healthcare that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of substance use disorders and related health conditions. In Fort Wayne, Indiana, this medical specialty plays a significant role in addressing the complex issues surrounding addiction and substance abuse.

Addiction is recognized as a chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. It is considered a medical condition because it alters brain structure and function, affecting behavior, decision-making, and impulse control.

Treatment approaches in addiction medicine are multifaceted and may include a combination of medication-assisted treatment, behavioral therapies, counseling, and support groups. The goal is to help individuals achieve and maintain long-term recovery while addressing the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction.

Importance of addiction medicine in Fort Wayne

Addiction medicine is particularly important in Fort Wayne, as the city, like many others across the United States, faces challenges related to substance abuse and its consequences.

While specific statistics for Fort Wayne may not be readily available, Indiana as a whole has been significantly affected by the opioid epidemic and other substance use issues. According to the Indiana State Department of Health, the state has seen a substantial increase in drug overdose deaths in recent years, highlighting the need for comprehensive addiction treatment services.

The presence of addiction medicine specialists in Fort Wayne is essential for addressing these challenges and improving community health. These professionals play a key role in: 1. Providing expert care and treatment for individuals struggling with substance use disorders 2. Educating the community about addiction and its prevention 3. Collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care 4. Supporting families affected by addiction 5. Contributing to public health initiatives aimed at reducing substance abuse rates

By addressing addiction as a medical condition, Fort Wayne's addiction medicine specialists help reduce stigma, improve access to treatment, and ultimately enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.

Choosing an Addiction Medicine Specialist in Fort Wayne

Factors to consider when selecting a doctor

Credentials and board certifications

• Review American Board of Preventive Medicine certifications
• Look for additional relevant board certifications (e.g., Psychiatry, Family Medicine)

Experience and specializations

• Consider years of practice in addiction medicine
• Evaluate additional specialties that complement addiction treatment

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews
• Read detailed patient feedback when available

Hospital affiliations

• Check associations with reputable local hospitals
• Consider proximity of affiliated hospitals to your location

Resources for finding addiction medicine specialists

Online directories and review sites

• Utilize Healthgrades and similar platforms
• Cross-reference information across multiple sources

Referrals from primary care physicians

• Consult your family doctor for recommendations
• Discuss your specific needs and preferences

Local support groups and organizations

• Attend meetings to gather firsthand recommendations
• Seek advice from addiction recovery advocates in Fort Wayne

Top-Rated Addiction Medicine Specialists in Fort Wayne

Dr. Andrew Roberts

Background and Specializations

• Internal Medicine and Addiction Medicine specialist
• Affiliated with Community Hospital East, South, and North

Education and Certifications

• Residency at George Washington University
• Undergraduate degree from University of Notre Dame
• Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine

Patient Feedback

• 5.0-star rating based on 1 review
• Contact information: (260) 267-5159

Megan Kostrubanic, LMHC

Areas of Expertise

• Counseling, Psychology, Marriage & Family Therapy
• Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling
• Anxiety Disorders, Adolescent Psychology, Life Coaching

Education

• Undergraduate degree from Purdue University
• Graduate studies at University of Saint Francis

Patient Feedback

• 5.0-star rating based on 7 reviews
• Contact information: (260) 582-2604

Dr. James Meacham

Specializations

• Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Addiction Medicine
• Affiliated with Riverview Health

Qualifications

• Medical degree from University of Louisville (1981)
• Board certified in Preventive Medicine and Internal Medicine

Patient Feedback

• 4.7-star rating based on 12 reviews

Dr. Ahsan Mahmood

Areas of Practice

• Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine
• Affiliated with Parkview Wabash Hospital

Credentials

• Medical degree from Dow Medical College Karachi (1995)
• Board certified in Preventive Medicine and Psychiatry & Neurology

Patient Feedback

• 4.0-star rating based on 7 reviews

Additional Resources for Addiction Treatment in Fort Wayne

Local Support Groups and Organizations

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings

• Locations and schedules of regular meetings in Fort Wayne

SMART Recovery

• Self-Management and Recovery Training program information

Fort Wayne Recovery

• Local organization offering various addiction support services

Rehabilitation Centers and Treatment Facilities

Parkview Behavioral Health

• Comprehensive addiction treatment programs

Bowen Center

• Mental health and addiction services

Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center

• Residential treatment program

Telehealth Options for Addiction Medicine

Online therapy platforms

• Examples: BetterHelp, Talkspace

Virtual support groups

• Online AA and NA meetings

Telemedicine services offered by local providers

• Check with listed doctors for virtual appointment options