Virtual Based Opioid Treatment
About VBOT
The Virtual Based Opioid Treatment (VBOT) initiative is a statewide, clinician-led program expanding access to evidence-based care for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) across North Carolina. Founded by the NCMS Foundation, VBOT connects patients to high-quality, low-barrier treatment through a coordinated virtual model integrating medical care, counseling, peer support, and care navigation.
Developed in response to persistent gaps in access—particularly in rural and underserved communities—VBOT enables patients to begin treatment quickly, often within days, through a model designed to reduce stigma, eliminate logistical barriers, and maintain high clinical standards.
How It Works
VBOT delivers coordinated, virtual care through a clinician-aligned model that supports both patients and providers:
Impact
Statewide access to OUD treatment, including rural and underserved communities
Faster time to treatment initiation, often within days
Strong patient engagement and retention compared to traditional models
Growing network of clinicians, behavioral health providers, and community partners
Why it Matters
Opioid use disorder is a chronic medical condition that requires timely, evidence-based care. VBOT expands access to treatment by meeting patients where they are—delivering care that is accessible, confidential, and grounded in clinical best practices.
By complementing traditional care models, VBOT serves as an access bridge and care extender, helping more individuals receive the treatment they need while supporting providers with a scalable, compliant framework.
Expand access to evidence-based opioid use disorder treatment across North Carolina.
“
Having access to virtual treatment changed everything.
I didn’t have to choose between getting help and keeping my life together.”