Summary
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) is urging Congress to reauthorize and expand the Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) Act. This reauthorization is critical to address the ongoing addiction and overdose crisis, advocating for increased access to evidence-based treatment, particularly medications for opioid use disorder. ASAM emphasizes the importance of expanding the SUPPORT Act to include provisions for incarcerated individuals and those exposed to fentanyl, ultimately aiming to save lives and improve addiction treatment outcomes.
** Main Story**
A Call to Action: ASAM’s Push for SUPPORT Act Reauthorization
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) has intensified its advocacy efforts, urging Congress to reauthorize the Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) Act. Originally passed in 2018, the SUPPORT Act’s lapse in September 2023 coincided with a surge in addiction and overdose cases, highlighting the urgent need for its revival. ASAM emphasizes the necessity of not only reauthorizing the existing provisions but also significantly expanding the act to address the evolving challenges of the addiction crisis.
Expanding Access to Life-Saving Treatment: A Focus on Medication
Central to ASAM’s advocacy is the expansion of access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). MOUD, including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, is evidence-based treatment proven to reduce overdose deaths and support long-term recovery. ASAM champions policies that remove barriers to these life-saving medications, ensuring that individuals at the highest risk of overdose, such as incarcerated individuals and those exposed to fentanyl, receive the necessary treatment.
Addressing Unique Challenges: Incarceration and Fentanyl Exposure
ASAM recognizes the distinct challenges faced by incarcerated individuals and those exposed to fentanyl, advocating for specific provisions within the SUPPORT Act reauthorization to address their needs. Incarcerated populations often lack adequate access to addiction treatment, leading to increased risk of relapse and overdose upon release. Similarly, the rise of fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, has exacerbated the overdose crisis, requiring targeted interventions and increased access to naloxone, an overdose reversal medication. ASAM’s push for inclusion of these vulnerable populations within the SUPPORT Act reflects its commitment to comprehensive and equitable addiction care.
Beyond Reauthorization: Modernizing Addiction Treatment
ASAM’s vision extends beyond the mere reauthorization of the SUPPORT Act. They advocate for a modernized approach to addiction treatment, incorporating the latest scientific advancements, best practices, and a holistic understanding of addiction as a chronic medical condition. ASAM promotes policies that encourage integrated care models, combining behavioral health services with medical treatment to address the complex interplay of physical and mental health in addiction recovery. This integrated approach, according to ASAM, is essential for providing patient-centered care and improving long-term outcomes.
Collaboration for Change: A Multi-Faceted Approach
ASAM recognizes the importance of collaboration in achieving its advocacy goals. They actively partner with other organizations, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to build consensus and push for meaningful policy change. This collaborative approach amplifies their message and strengthens their advocacy efforts, creating a united front in the fight against addiction. ASAM’s persistent dedication to advancing addiction treatment through advocacy, research, and education underscores its commitment to a future where addiction prevention, treatment, remission, and recovery are accessible to all, and where they profoundly improve the health of individuals and communities. Their current call to action on the SUPPORT Act is a critical step in achieving this vision.
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