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News Author: Staff Editor Last Updated: Sep 7, 2017 - 10:06:33 PM



Report Details Inconsistent Coverage in Treatment of Substance Use Disorder

By Staff Editor
Jun 21, 2017 - 12:51:29 PM



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Statement attributed to:
Patrice A. Harris, M.D.
Chair, American Medical Association Opioid Task Force and Immediate Past Chair of the AMA Board of Trustees

(HealthNewsDigest.com) - “This new report from the Addiction Solutions Campaign reveals the significant challenges that patients face when seeking treatment for a substance use disorder. This report makes it clear that health insurers and regulators need to take a hard look at their legal obligations to ensure that patients receive the full benefits of existing parity laws covering mental health and substance use disorders.

“While we recognize that some insurers have made steps to remove prior authorization for medication assisted treatment, for example, this report should be a wake-up call that too many patients face significant hurdles in accessing care.

“When a patient seeking care for an opioid use disorder is forced to delay or interrupt ongoing treatment because of a health plan utilization management coverage restriction—such as prior authorization—that can be harmful to their care and health.  With respect to opioid use disorders, that could mean relapse or death from overdose.

“Increasing access to treatment is an essential component of reversing the nation’s opioid epidemic. We hope this report spurs insurers and regulators to act. The AMA is ready to work with them and all stakeholders to advance policies that will help our patients.”

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About the American Medical Association

The American Medical Association is the premier national organization providing timely, essential resources to empower physicians, residents and medical students to succeed at every phase of their medical lives. Physicians have entrusted the AMA to advance the art and science of medicine and the betterment of public health on behalf of patients for more than 170 years. For more information, visit ama-assn.org.


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