About VA Puget Sound Health Care System – Tacoma
VA Puget Sound Health Care System in Tacoma, Washington offers comprehensive substance use treatment for Veterans at the American Lake VA Medical Center campus.
Care is matched to each Veteran's needs with a low barrier philosophy that welcomes individuals even if they have not fully stopped using substances.
MAT and Addiction Treatment
Treatment typically begins with an assessment or referral and Veterans may access inpatient or outpatient detoxification when medically appropriate.
From there care can step into outpatient services with counseling, drug and alcohol monitoring, and ongoing care coordination through the broader VA system.
Most therapy is delivered in a group format and is supported by medications such as methadone and buprenorphine. Veterans also have access to psychiatric care and PTSD treatment, overdose prevention education with kits, and referrals for housing, chronic pain, and residential treatment.
Quick Facts About VA Puget Sound – Tacoma
- Levels of care: Inpatient and outpatient detox, outpatient addiction treatment, and medication assisted treatment.
- Who they treat: Veterans, including women Veterans, minority Veterans, and LGBTQ+ Veterans, with gender inclusive and gender-specific options.
- Approach: Evidence based, low barrier care integrated with mental health, PTSD, and medical services.
- Payment options: VA benefits, with private insurance and self pay.
- Amenities: Full medical campus with free parking, wheelchair access, and transportation support.
- Extras: Washington state approved treatment for legal requirements and opportunities to join research studies.
