Methadone can be a life-changing treatment option for people with opioid use disorder. However, a number of federal and state regulations and logistical requirements can inhibit a person’s ability to start and/or maintain methadone treatment. There are regulation exceptions that can help people get the essential care they need, and some providers are using these exceptions to initiate methadone while still complying with the regulatory boundaries.
This month’s podcast covers current regulations directing how and when people with opioid use disorder can access methadone treatment; what clinics can do to deliver life-saving care while complying with regulations; and how supporting clients on methadone can also enhance their ability to maintain antiretroviral therapy or practice HIV prevention behaviors.
“Really to address what are now being described as syndemics - the epidemics of opioid use disorder as well as increasing HIV transmission among people who inject drugs - we have to think about these things together and deliver services in an integrated way because the old system, the siloed care, is system-centered, not patient-centered and it hasn’t gotten us to the goal of preventing HIV transmission or preventing opioid overdose.” -- Dr. Jessica Taylor
Additional Resources
- SAMHSA COVID-19 FAQ for MOUD
- Methadone Regulatory language
- DEA description of 72-hour rule
- Instructions to request an exception to-21CFR1306.07(b)-3-day-rule
- SAMHSA Treatment Improvement Protocol: TIP 63 Medication for Opioid Use Disorder
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