For a quarter-century AT Forum has served as a source of support and encouragement for the opioid addiction community, as well as an advocate of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and opioid treatment programs (OTPs). Much has changed during that time, and some things have come full circle. Back in the early 1990s, methadone was the only medication for treating opioid use … [Read more...] about AT Forum Turns 25: Reporting on Opioid Use Disorders and Medication-Assisted Treatment
2017
Health Care Uncertainty Leaves Questions for OTPs; Self-Pay May Continue
In one respect, opioid treatment programs (OTPs) have an advantage over most areas of health care, when it comes to uncertainty about insurance in the future. If even the worst scenario came to pass (zero coverage for treatment, and that is unlikely), it wouldn’t be an unusual situation for OTPs. Unfortunately, OTP patients are used to paying out of pocket in many cases. “It’s … [Read more...] about Health Care Uncertainty Leaves Questions for OTPs; Self-Pay May Continue
Opioid STR Grant Funding Formula Stays in Effect for Year 2
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced that the funding formula for the $1 billion Opioid State Targeted Response (STR) grant allocation formula will stay in place for the second year of the two-year program. SAMSHA made the announcement on October 30, to the relief of the state agencies that were not sure if they would need to write … [Read more...] about Opioid STR Grant Funding Formula Stays in Effect for Year 2
24/7 Access to OTPs Opened in Arizona With Federal STR Funds
Arizona is using some of its Opioid STR (State Targeted Response) money, granted under the 21st Century Cures Act, to expand access to Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs). Currently, one OTP has opened its doors 24/7 but the state’s plan is to have a total of five facilities—two of them OTPs, and three, crisis centers—able to help patients access treatment 24 hours a day, 7 days a … [Read more...] about 24/7 Access to OTPs Opened in Arizona With Federal STR Funds
Older Adults with Opioid Use Disorders—The Forgotten Generation
They’ve been called a “growing and understudied population”—people who need treatment, yet find it hard to obtain or to pay for. So, many do without it. And, as time passes, they become increasingly vulnerable to physical and mental challenges. Who are they? They’re older adults who have opioid use disorders (OUDs). Recommendations from medical and government sources on what … [Read more...] about Older Adults with Opioid Use Disorders—The Forgotten Generation