New data show 98% opioid abstinence rates among long-term patients in Maryland as the state reports a fourth straight year of declining overdose deaths.
BALTIMORE, Nov. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Ideal Option, a national leader in outpatient medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for addiction to opioids, stimulants and other substances, has released its 2025 Annual Outcomes Report for Maryland patients. The report aggregates data from over 850 Maryland patients in 2025, detailing geographic and demographic profiles, treatment stages, medication adherence, and substance use trends based on lab specimens.
The report arrives as Maryland reports continued progress against the overdose crisis. According to preliminary data from the Maryland Department of Health's Overdose Data Dashboard, announced by Governor Wes Moore, the state recorded 1,315 overdose deaths in 2025 — a 26% decrease from 2024, the fourth consecutive annual decline, and the lowest total in 10 years. Fentanyl-related overdose deaths fell 31%, from 1,314 to 906.
Key findings in the Ideal Option report highlight the success of office-based MAT, with 98% of patients in long-term recovery achieving sustained abstinence from opioids. For Maryland patients progressing from treatment initiation to maintenance in 2025, the report shows:
- 99% reduction in fentanyl use
- 49% reduction in methamphetamine use
At enrollment in 2025, 54% of Maryland patients tested positive for two or more substances, with cocaine (29.4%), benzodiazepines (22.1%) and methamphetamine (21.3%) the most frequently detected.
"Maryland's fourth straight year of declining overdose deaths is encouraging, and it shows what's possible when communities and providers work together," said Tim Kilgallon, CEO of Ideal Option. "This report shows that when patients have consistent access to evidence-based, medication-assisted treatment, recovery is not only possible — it is measurable and sustained. Keeping that access strong is how we keep these numbers moving in the right direction."
Ideal Option actively collaborates with local agencies and correctional facilities throughout Maryland. In 2025, referrals from correctional facilities accounted for 4% of new patients entering through community referrals, with drug court referrals accounting for another 8%, supporting continuity of care for justice-involved individuals transitioning back into their communities.
View the full Ideal Option 2025 Annual Patient Outcomes Report for Maryland here: http://www.idealoption.com/patient-outcomes.
Ideal Option has helped more than 100,000 patients through a network of over 80 outpatient clinics across 9 states: Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon and Washington.
With no waitlists and most forms of insurance accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid, patients can typically get started on treatment for fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, alcohol or other substances within 1-3 business days.
Patients can make an appointment by calling 1.877.522.1275 or visiting www.idealoption.com.
About Ideal Option
Headquartered in Renton, Washington, Ideal Option was founded in 2012 and has since helped more than 100,000 patients through a network of 80+ office-based medication-assisted treatment (MAT) clinics across nine states. Ideal Option has received The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval®, demonstrating compliance with its exacting performance standards for safety and quality of patient care. With a mission to serve underserved communities, Ideal Option accepts all forms of insurance including Medicaid and Medicare. Financial assistance and payment plans are also available.
Ideal Option's team of medical providers carry certifications in Addiction and Emergency Medicine, Internal, and Family Medicine, among other specialties. The company also employs social workers, case workers, counselors and mental health practitioners. This holistic approach helps drive positive outcomes, including family stability, stable housing, improved overall health and reduced rates of recidivism.
In all the communities it serves, Ideal Option collaborates with existing stakeholders and providers to improve the continuum of care. This approach includes partnerships with emergency rooms and county jail systems, where individuals with substance use disorder often appear, as well as collaborating with numerous support agencies and municipal programs addressing social needs such as housing, mental health and nutrition support.
Media Contact
Olivia Roe, Ideal Option, 1 5095055191, [email protected], www.idealoption.com
SOURCE Ideal Option
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