News from NASADAD

• NASADAD presents to Governors’ Criminal Justice Policy Advisors
• NASADAD attends House Energy and Commerce Committee – Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations hearing on opioid issues
• NASADAD attends Medicaid Coalition Meeting on the federal Medicaid budget and Medicaid expansion
• NASADAD attends Alliance for Health Reform briefing on innovation in the private and public sectors

Around the Agencies

• New SAMHSA report reveals increased rates of heroin use over the past decade
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for the FY 2015 Program Supplements for Violence Intervention to Enhance Lives grant program
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Statewide Peer Networks for Recovery and Resiliency Grants
• HHS now accepting applications for FY 2015 Community Interoperability and Health Information Exchange Cooperative Agreement Program grants

In the News

• New study finds high rates of missed diagnoses for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
• Carolyn Hardin named interim CEO of the National Association of Drug Court Professionals
• Breaking Addiction Act of 2015 introduced to eliminate the IMD exclusion and increase State flexibility for substance use disorder treatment
• HIV outbreak in southeastern Indiana linked to oxymorphone injection

News from NASADAD

NASADAD presents to Governors’ Criminal Justice Policy Advisors
Rob Morrison, Executive Director presented to a committee of the National Governors Association on Thursday, April 23^rd. The committee is made up of Governors’ Criminal Justice Policy Advisors. Mr. Morrison provided information from NASADAD’s 2014 member inquiry on State responses to prescription drugs and heroin abuse, as well as information on NASADAD’s priorities and criminal justice examples. Policy Advisors from 11 States participated on the call: AL, AZ, KY, NC, NH, NJ, NM, OR, TN, VA, and WV.

NASADAD attends House Energy and Commerce Committee – Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations hearing on opioid issues
Rob Morrison, Executive Director, Colleen Haller, Public Policy Associate, and Brian Denten, Public Policy intern attended the hearing. The hearing featured testimony from practitioners and researchers in the substance use disorder field on the increased prevalence of opioid use disorders. Both Representatives and panelists discussed the importance of determining the efficacy of treatment services such as medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and others in achieving recovery. Increasing parity for mental health and substance use disorders, training physicians on prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) usage, and improving interstate interoperability with PDMPs were also discussed. Chairman Murphy (R-PA) concluded the hearing with a summary of discussed topics and a reaffirmation of his commitment to rethinking the government’s approach to substance use disorders. View the background memo for the meeting here, and the video of the hearing here.

Panelists:

• Robert L. DuPont, M.D.; President, Institute for Behavior and Health
• Marvin D. Seppala, M.D.; Chief Medical Officer, Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation
• Laurence M. Westreich, M.D.; President, American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry
• Anna Lembke, M.D.; Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University Medical Center Psychiatry Department
• Adam Bisaga, M.D.; Columbia Universal Medical Center, NYS Psychiatric Instiute
• Patrice Harris, M.D.; American Medical Association

 

NASADAD attends Alliance for Health Reform briefing on innovation in the private and public sectors
Brian Denten, Public Policy Intern attended the meeting. Panelists discussed ongoing innovations in health care delivery, and focused on the cost savings gained from shifts toward alternative care organizations versus fee-for-service models. Several panelists identified the increase of clinical analytics as a critical area of growth for the health care industry. The panel concluded with a discussion of current and future methods for identifying innovations in both the private and public sectors, and identified barriers that prolong successful implementation of new innovations including cultural resistance in the health care industry and inefficient regulation processes.

NASADAD attends Medicaid Coalition Meeting on the federal Medicaid budget and Medicaid expansion
Brian Denten, Public Policy Intern attended the meeting hosted by Families USA. The meeting focused on the federal budget and potential threats to Medicaid and the ongoing process of States participating in the Medicaid expansion. Speakers from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP) discussed the recent implementation process for Medicaid expansion via waivers in Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, and Michigan. CBPP noted that these States allowed some or all of their expansion population to enroll in private coverage offered through the health insurance marketplaces. Speakers went on to discuss the federal government’s efforts to scale back State proposals to limit certain health benefits, and the federal government’s rejection of State proposals to condition Medicaid eligibility on participation in work search activities.

Panelists:

• Ellen Nissenbaum; Senior Vice President for Government Affairs, CBPP
• Judy Solomon, Vice President for Health Policy, CBPP
• Jessica Schubel, Senior Policy Analyst, CBPP
• Patrick Willard, Field Director, Families USA

Around the Agencies

New SAMHSA report reveals increased rates of heroin use over the past decade
A new Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) report released this week revealed growing rates of heroin use over the past decade in the United States. The number of people aged 12 or older receiving treatment for heroin use in the past year has risen from 277,000 people in 2002 to 526,000 people in 2013. SAMHSA warns this drastic increase may stretch the capacity of treatment providers to deliver quality care. The study further notes that the data does not support anecdotal evidence that efforts to prevent illegal misuse of prescription opioids have led more people to use heroin. In 2013, 169,000 people began using heroin for the first time; matching first-time users recorded in most years since 2002.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for the FY 2015 Program Supplements for Violence Intervention to Enhance Lives grant program
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for the FY 2015 Program Supplements for violence Intervention to Enhance Lives grant program. Grant funding should be used to help grantees from the Targeted Capacity Expansion: Substance Abuse Treatment for Racial/Ethnic Minority Women at High Risk for HIV/AIDS (TCE – HIV: Minority Women) expand their programs.  The Violence Intervention to Enhance Lives (VITEL) portion of the supplemental grant program should be used to upgrade existing substance use disorder treatment services by including intimate partner violence (IPV) screening. Grantees will be awarded an anticipated amount of $70,000 per year. Applications are due by Monday, June 22, 2015.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Statewide Peer Networks for Recovery and Resiliency grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for the FY 2015 Statewide Peer Networks for Recovery and Resiliency grant program. Grant funding should be used to create and enhance Statewide mental health and substance use disorder recovery networks to improve access to and the quality of treatment programs. Grantees will be awarded an anticipated amount of up to $100,000 for a 1 year period. Applications are due by Tuesday, June 23, 2015.

HHS now accepting applications for FY 2015 Community Interoperability and Health Information Exchange Cooperative Agreement Program grants
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) is now accepting applications for FY 2015 Community Interoperability and Health Information Exchange Cooperative Agreement Program grants. Grant funding should be used to support and expand community efforts to improve the accessibility and use of health information. This program will also expand the number of non-eligible care providers to send, receive, find, and use electronic health information in an appropriate and standardized manner. ONC encourages applicants to propose projects that could be emulated in other communities, and are cross-jurisdictional, interstate, or regional in nature. Up to 10 community organizations, State or local government agencies, or other community groups will receive funding. Applications are due by June 15, 2015.

In the News

New study finds high rates of missed diagnoses for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
A new study published in Pediatrics has discovered high rates of missed diagnoses for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). The study examined a sample of foster or adoptive care children, finding that 86 percent of cases with FASD diagnoses were unrecognized (80%) or misdiagnosed (6%). This research suggests that health care providers need increased education to better recognize alcohol-related disorders in patients and provide proper screening and treatment options.

Carolyn Hardin named interim CEO of the National Association of Drug Court Professionals
Carolyn Hardin was named interim CEO of the National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP) this past week. Carolyn will serve as interim CEO while the NADCP Board of Directors continues its search for a permanent replacement. Carolyn is temporarily leaving her position as Senior Director of the National Drug Court Institute (NCDI), where she has overseen the development of all training, technical assistance, and academic publications on behalf of NADCP for the past eight years.

Breaking Addiction Act of 2015 introduced to eliminate the IMD exclusion and increase State flexibility for substance use disorder treatment
The Breaking Addiction Act of 2015 was introduced this past week by Representatives Tim Ryan (D-OH), Marcia Fudge (D-OH), and Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) to eliminate the institutions for mental disease (IMD) exclusion and increase State flexibility for substance use disorder treatments. Current federal law prohibits Medicaid from matching payments for inpatient treatment facilities with more than 16 beds. The Breaking Addiction Act of 2015 would eliminate this exclusion, and allow States to facilitate reimbursements to IMD facilities with up to 60 beds. Read a FAQ about the bill here.

HIV outbreak in southeastern Indiana linked to oxymorphone injection
A recent HIV outbreak in a rural southeastern Indiana county has been linked to syringe-sharing partners injecting the prescription opioid oxymorphone. The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has diagnosed HIV infection in 135 people in the county’s 4,200 person community. Investigators determined the average patient to be 35 years old and male. A small number of pregnant women are among those diagnosed. The ISDH notes that injection drug use in this county is a multi-generational activity, with up to three generations of a family injecting together. Indiana has worked with local health care providers and law enforcement officials to launch a public education campaign, short-term syringe exchange, and support for comprehensive medical care including HIV and hepatitis C treatment as part of its response to the outbreak.

Should you have any questions, or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Robert Morrison, Executive Director, (202) 293-0090 or Colleen Haller, Public Policy Associate, at (202) 293-0090.

News from NASADAD

• NASADAD releases fact sheet on the SAPT Block Grant prevention set-aside
• Preparing for September 2015 and Recovery Month
• NASADAD becomes supporting organization for Guard Your Health
• NASADAD attends Capitol Hill briefing on prenatal alcohol exposure

Around the Agencies

• HRSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Rural Opioid Overdose Reversal Grant Program
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Statewide Peer Networks for Recovery and Resiliency grants
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Offender Reentry Program grants
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Targeted Capacity Expansion: Substance Use Disorder Treatment for Racial/Ethnic Minority Populations at High-Risk for HIV/AIDS grants
• SAMHSA report examines illicit drug use trends in the workplace
• NIDA releases online course on prescription opioid misuse
• CDC study investigates increase in deaths involving opioid analgesics
• CDC study traces tobacco trends among middle and high school students, finding increased usage of e-cigarettes

In the News

• National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors releases new resource on health department infectious disease programs and substance use disorders
• 2015 Ramstad-Kennedy Award seeks SSA director nominations – Due May 1st
• Steve Pasierb steps down as CEO of the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
• Ohio Senate Health and Human Services Committee hears testimony for legislation expanded naloxone access
• Michael Botticelli visits Northern Kentucky to speak on opioid crisis
• American Journal of Public Health study suggests increase in alcohol taxes leads to decrease in drunk-driving related car accidents
• States discuss need for increased funding of medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorders
• NIDA sees prevention potential in new heroin vaccine

Upcoming Events

• Altarum Institute hosts roundtable on the future of community-based solutions for substance use disorders
• SAMHSA announces webinar on analyzing SAMHSA public-use data
• SAMHSA announces webinar on hepatitis C prevention among people with opioid use disorders
• CMS and SAMHSA announce webinar on proposed parity rule for Medicaid and CHIP

News from NASADAD

NASADAD releases fact sheet on the SAPT Block Grant prevention set-aside
The Public Policy Department released the fact sheet on Friday, April 17^th after collaborating with several NASADAD staff and the NASADAD membership. The fact sheet provides information about the prevention set-aside and sheds light on how State substance abuse agencies fund substance abuse prevention. The SAPT Block Grant prevention set-aside makes up almost 70% of funding for primary substance abuse prevention funding managed by State substance abuse agencies. In 6 States, the set-aside makes up 100% of primary prevention funding. Other sources of funding include State funds, and a small amount of funding from local sources and Medicaid. The fact sheet also details the types of activities funded by the prevention set-aside and positive outcomes associated with the funding.

Preparing for September 2015 and Recovery Month
As you may know, each September is National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month. In collaboration with Recovery Planning Month Partners, and federal agencies such as the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), NASADAD works with the membership to promote actions in States across the country to celebrate recovery. For 2015, the theme is “Join the Voices of Recovery: Visible, Valuable, and Local.” We understand members have been working hard to engage in marches, rallies, town hall meetings, and other events over the years. We are writing to promote Recovery Month in 2015 and to help share information and resources along the way. One particular way to promote Recovery Month has been for Governors to issue proclamations. As you approve and release proclamations, please forward a copy to NASADAD (ecampbell@nasadad.org) and SAMHSA (recoverymonth@samhsa.hhs.gov).

We have included a sample proclamation from 2014 issued by Virginia below.

Alcohol and Drug Recovery Month

9/1/2014

WHEREAS, substance abuse disorders are serious but treatable issues that impact Virginians; and

WHEREAS, more than 530,000 Virginians in need of substance abuse services could benefit from treatment; and

WHEREAS, Virginians seeking treatment for addiction need affordable, individualized treatment programs that offer appropriate referrals as well as access to treatment services; and

WHEREAS,  every $1 invested in treatment results in a return of $4 to $7 in reduced drug-related crime, criminal justice costs, and theft; and

WHEREAS, with positive support and encouragement, people struggling with an addiction can recover and lead healthy and productive lives; and

WHEREAS, untreated substance abuse disorders negatively affect individuals, families, and communities while also impacting the criminal justice system, child welfare system, family and social service agencies, and faith-based and community organizations; and

WHEREAS, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services are participating in the National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month; and

WHEREAS, this year’s theme is “Join the Voices for Recovery: Speak Up, Reach Out”; and

WHEREAS, Alcohol and Drug Recovery Month is an opportunity to encourage those dealing with substance abuse disorders to seek treatment, and to recognize the work of those providing affordable treatment programs in Virginia and across the country;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Terence R. McAuliffe, do hereby recognize September 2014 as ALCOHOL AND DRUG RECOVERY MONTH in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.

NASADAD becomes supporting organization for Guard Your Health
NASADAD became a supporting organization for Guard Your Health, an Army National Guard program aiming to connect National Guard soldiers and family members to information and resources on health and medical readiness, this past week. The Guard Your Health program stresses each solider and family member’s personal responsibility to maintain a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. Guard Your Health’s website features resources and community forums discussing nutrition, exercise, stress, sleep, dental health, and family resilience.

NASADAD attends Capitol Hill briefing on prenatal alcohol exposure
Rob Morrison, Executive Director and Shalini Wickramatilake-Templeman, Research Analyst attended the briefing hosted by the Friends of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). A number of speakers presented, including Dr. George Koob (Director of NIAAA), Dr. Kenneth Warren (Deputy Director of NIAAA), Dr. Edward Riley (San Diego State University, Department of Psychology), and Kathleen Tavenner Mitchell (National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome). The presenters provided information on NIAAA’s work relating to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), the history of alcohol exposure during pregnancy, current FASD research trends, and personal experiences.

Around the Agencies

HRSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Rural Opioid Overdose Reversal Grant Program
The Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is now accepting applications for the FY 2015 Rural Opioid Overdose Reversal Grant Program. Grant funding should be used to reduce mortality rates associated with opioid overdoses in rural areas by increasing access to naloxone and other opioid overdose reversal devices. The program also aims to educate and train licensed health care professionals on how to identify and reverse opioid overdoses and to help refer at-risk populations to appropriate substance use treatment centers.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Statewide Peer Networks for Recovery and Resiliency grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for the FY 2015 Statewide Peer Networks for Recovery and Resiliency grant program. Grant funding should be used to create and enhance Statewide mental health and substance use disorder recovery networks to improve access to and the quality of treatment programs. Grantees will be awarded an anticipated amount of up to $100,000 for a 1 year period. Applications are due by Tuesday, June 23, 2015.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Offender Reentry Program grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for FY 2015 Offender Reentry Program grants. Grant funds should be used to expand access to substance use disorder treatment and reentry programs to sentenced offenders who are returning to their communities from incarceration. Applicants are expected to form coalitions with relevant stakeholders to create programs easing the transition from incarceration to substance use disorder treatment programs. Applications are due by Tuesday, May 26, 2015. Grantees will be awarded an anticipated amount of up to $400,000 per year.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Targeted Capacity Expansion: Substance Use Disorder Treatment for Racial/Ethnic Minority Populations at High-Risk for HIV/AIDS grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for FY 2015 Targeted Capacity Expansion: Substance Use Disorder Treatment for Racial/Ethnic Minority Populations at High-Risk for HIV/AIDS grants. Grant funding should be used to expand substance use disorder treatment, co-occurring mental health, and HIV programs for high-risk populations. The program aims to reduce the risk of HIV and other associated viral infections among high-risk populations. Grantees will be awarded an anticipated amount of up to $500,000 per year. Applications are due by Thursday, May 14, 2015.

SAMHSA report examines illicit drug use trends in the workplace
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released a report analyzing illicit drug use trends in the workplace this past week. The report found that substance use disorders among employees are associated with negative behaviors such as absenteeism and frequent employee turnover. The lowest rates of heavy alcohol use were found in education, health care, social assistance, and public administration. Conversely, according to stats laid out by site like https://www.hagstromdrilling.com.au/,  the highest rates of heavy alcohol use were found in mining, construction, and the service industry.

NIDA releases online course on prescription opioid misuse
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has partnered with the Institute for Research, Education, and Training in Addictions (IRETA) to create a free online course about the prevalence of prescription opioid misuse. The course, The Prevalence of Prescription Opioid Misuse: Doctor Shopping, Co-ingestion, and Exposure, aims to familiarize health care professionals about recent clinically relevant findings from research on opioid misuse and related behaviors. Content includes a discussion of the demographics behind prescription opioid misuse, rates of opioid exposure among teens, and the prevalence of opioid co-ingestion with other substances.

CDC study investigates increase in deaths involving opioid analgesics
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a study this past week investigating the increasing number of deaths involving opioid analgesics in New York State. The study examined poisoning deaths involving opioid analgesics from 2003-2012, finding that 70.7% of deaths involving opioid analgesics in 2012 involved at least one other drug – most frequently benzodiazepines. Opioid analgesic-related deaths increased in both number and as a percentage of all drug poisoning deaths throughout the period examined. Greater mortality rates were found in men and Medicaid enrollees. The study recommends increased investment in a networked Statewide system to prevent the misuse of prescription medications.

CDC study traces tobacco trends among middle and high school students, finding increased usage of e-cigarettes
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a study this past week tracing tobacco usage trends among middle and high school students. The study found that e-cigarettes were the most commonly used tobacco product among both populations in 2014. From 2011-2014, e-cigarettes and hookah saw statistically significant increases in popularity among students while cigarettes and cigars saw decreases in usage. These changes in usage rates offset each other, resulting in no change in overall tobacco use for this population. The CDC estimates that 4.6 million middle and high school students use tobacco products. The study recommends continued implementation of proven tobacco prevention strategies.

In the News

National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors releases new resource on health department infectious disease programs and substance use disorders
The National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD) released a new resource discussing opportunities for health department infectious disease programs to increase coverage for individuals with substance use disorders. Produced with support from the MAC AIDS Fund, Maximizing Health, Minimizing Harm: The Role of Public Health Programs in Drug User Health recommends broader access to HIV and hepatitis testing for people at risk. The resource further recommends expanded medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs, and greater cooperation with State and local police departments.

2015 Ramstad-Kennedy Award seeks SSA director nominations – Due May 1st
The 2015 Ramstad-Kennedy Award seeks Single State Agency (SSA) director nominations for this year’s award. Created in 2008, the Ramstad-Kennedy Award seeks to honor SSA directors that have demonstrated exceptional leadership in support of recovery and Recovery Month by supporting and expanding the number and impact of Recovery Month activities in their respective states. The 2015 Ramstad-Kennedy Award will be presented on June 5, 2015 at the national conference of the National Association of State and Alcohol Abuse Directors (NASADAD). The application form is due by May 1, 2015 to SSARMAward@nacoa.org.

Steve Pasierb steps down as CEO of the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
Following 24 years of service, Steve Pasierb has stepped down as CEO of the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids on March 31^st. Steve joined the Partnership in March 1991 to replicate his successful media-based drug prevention campaign in Maryland on a national scale. Becoming CEO in 2001, Steve helped lead the Partnership of Drug-Free Kids in creating impactful communications and delivering programs that made measurable differences in national drug prevention. Steve is moving on to a new position as the President and CEO of the Toy Industry Association, and will be replaced by Marcia Lee Taylor as interim President and CEO. Marcia previously worked as Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for the Partnership of Drug-Free Kids.

Ohio Senate Health and Human Services Committee hears testimony for legislation expanding naloxone access
The Ohio Senate Health and Human Services Committee heard testimony for HB 4 this past week, a bill aiming to expand access to naloxone. HB 4 would give physicians the ability to allow pharmacists or pharmacy interns to dispense naloxone without a prescription to people at risk under certain circumstances. The bill would also grant immunity from criminal liability to family members and friends of people at risk when obtaining and administering naloxone during opioid overdoses. If the bill is passed, the Ohio Department of Health will develop a standardized protocol for pharmacies dispensing naloxone without prescription.

Michael Botticelli visits Northern Kentucky to speak on the opioid crisis
Michael Botticelli, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), visited Northern Kentucky last week to speak about the stigma around using medication to treat substance use disorders. Addressing the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Botticelli also stated his support for using naloxone to reverse opioid overdoses and save lives. United States Senator Mitch McConnell (R – KY) joined Mr. Botticelli, expressing his belief that managing the opioid crisis goes beyond partisan debate. The ONDCP recently changed its policy to require that State drug courts receiving federal funds include medication-assisted treatment.

American Journal of Public Health study suggests increase in alcohol taxes leads to decrease in drunk-driving related car accidents
The American Journal of Public Health published a study this past week linking increases in alcohol taxes to a decline in drunk-driving related car accidents. The study observed the effects of a 2009 increase in alcohol taxes in Illinois. Following the tax increase, deadly drunk-driving accidents declined 9.9% per month , culminating in a 26% overall decrease. Drivers younger than 30 years old showed a 37% decrease in drunk-driving accidents, compared to only a 23% decrease for drivers older than 30 years old. The study notes that differences between gender and race were not significant.

States discuss need for increased funding of medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorders
States continued to make their case for increased funding of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction in an Addiction Professional article this past week. Facing a proposed $40 million spending cut  for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT) for FY 2016, States will face new difficulties in adequately funding treatment programs. Mark Stringer, SSA in Missouri and NASADAD’s Board President, has focused on training providers to think of substance use disorders as treatable health conditions. Mr. Stringer suggests collaborating with fellow State agencies to advocate for increased financial resources. Barbara Cimaglio, deputy commissioner for the Vermont Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Programs (VT SSA), oversees a unique program that provides a model for innovative substance use disorder treatment. Vermont uses a “hub-and-spoke” system, in which central hubs evaluate and treat patients with substance use disorders before sending them to other treatment locations. This program was set up in part by an Affordable Care Act (ACA) provision that expanded funding for health homes. Increasing funding for substance use disorder treatment remains a priority among many State substance abuse agencies.

NIDA sees prevention potential in new heroin vaccine
The National institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) discussed the potential of a new heroin vaccine this past week. The vaccine seeks to prevent heroin-related substance use disorders in high-risk individuals by creating antibodies that prevent the drug from activating the body’s receptors. Early laboratory trials on rats have proved successful in preventing rats from effectively using heroin. Nora D. Volkow, director of NIDA, cautions that until human trials are completed, the efficacy of the vaccine for humans remains unknown. Ms. Volkow remains optimistic that with the right level of investment, the vaccine could prove successful.

Upcoming Events

Altarum Institute hosts roundtable on the future of community-based solutions for substance use disorders
The Altarum Institute will host a roundtable discussion on the future of community-based solutions for substance use disorders on Thursday, May 14, 2015. Senators Whitehouse (D-RI) and Portman (R-OH) are invited to speak at the event. Other speakers include Michael Botticelli, Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), and Tom Coderre of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The roundtable will focus on recent developments in the recovery community and participants will discuss the need for increased resources to increase treatment capacity. The event will be held at the Pew Charitable Trusts Conference Center, and will be available online via Webinar. NASADAD is a co-sponsor of the event. Registration is due by Tuesday, May 5, 2014.

SAMHSA announces webinar on analyzing SAMHSA public-use data
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced a new webinar on analyzing SAMHSA public-use data this week. The webinar will discuss the basics of “analyzing SAMHSA public-use data with Survey Documentation and Analysis (SDA) on the SAMHSA website.” Presenters will explain how to use SDA for variable recoding and computation, comparison of means, and regression. The webinar will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2015 at 1p.m. Eastern Time.

SAMHSA announces webinar on hepatitis C prevention among people with opioid use disorders
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced a new webinar on hepatitis C prevention among people with opioid use disorders this past week. The HHS Office of HIV/AIDS and Infections Disease Policy (OHAIDP) will host the webinar. Cases of acute hepatitis C have increased by 75% from 2010 to 2012. A large part of this increase comes from young people with opioid use disorders moving to injecting drugs after a history of oral opioid prescription drug misuse. The webinar will highlight current hepatitis C trends, tools and prevention messages, and new prevention research. The webinar will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2015 from 1 – 2p.m. Eastern Time.

CMS and SAMHSA announce webinar on proposed parity rule for Medicaid and CHIP
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) have announced a new webinar on the proposed rule to align private mental health and substance use disorder parity requirements with Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The webinar will focus on informing consumers and providers about the details of the proposed rule and the comment submission process. John O’Brien (CMS) and Christopher Carroll (National Liaison Branch Chief, Office of Policy Planning and Prevention, SAMHSA) will speak during the webinar. The webinar will be held Friday, April 24, 2015 from 2 – 3p.m. Eastern Time. The deadline for submitting comments on the rule is June 9, 2015.

Should you have any questions, or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Robert Morrison, Executive Director, (202) 293-0090 or Colleen Haller, Public Policy Associate, at (202) 293-0090.

Around the Agencies

• CMS announces mental health and addiction parity rules for Medicaid and CHIP

In the News

• American Lung Association releases report on new health care options for quitting tobacco
• Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality releases resources to improve mental health, substance use disorder, and primary care integration
• New report in American Journal of Public Health suggests increased health risks associated with underage drinkers and “alcopops”

 

Around the Agencies

CMS announces mental health and addiction parity rules for Medicaid and CHIP
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the parity rules for Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) this past week. The rules will align mental health and substance use disorder benefits for low-income Americans with those already required of private health plans from the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008. Under the newly proposed rule, “all beneficiaries who receive services through managed care organizations or under alternative benefit plans have access to mental health and substance use disorder benefits regardless of whether services are provided through the managed care organization or another service deliver system” (CMS press release). The rule also requires that States inform enrollees the reason associated with any denial of reimbursement for mental health or substance use disorder services.

In the News

American Lung Association releases report on new health care options for quitting tobacco
The American Lung Association released the new report, State Health Insurance Marketplace Plans: New Opportunities to Help Smokers Quit this past week. The report discusses new options smokers have for quitting under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The report suggests that State health insurance marketplaces are not providing the coverage required under the ACA to quit smoking, including access to FDA-approved medications used to help individuals quit using tobacco. The FDA currently recommends nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, nasal sprays, inhalers, and bupropion and varenicline for quitting tobacco.

Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality releases resources to improve mental health, substance use disorder care,  and primary care integration
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) released resources discussing suggestions for improving the integration of mental health, substance use disorder care, and primary care this past week. The first resource, “A Guidebook of Professional Practices for Behavioral Health and Primary Care Integration,” establishes several best professional practices that integrated primary care organizations have used to improve integration. The second resource, “Provider and Practice-Level Competencies for Integrated Behavioral Health in Primary Care: A Literature Review,” lists different approaches practices, providers, and staff can take to promote integration efforts.

New report in American Journal of Public Health suggests increased health risks associated with underage drinkers and “alcopops”
A new report in the American Journal of Public Health suggests increased health risks for underage drinkers of “alcopops.” Alcopops are carbonated, sweet pre-mixed/ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages such as Four Loko, Joose, and Mike’s Hard Lemonade. Alcopops contain higher concentrations of alcohol than traditional beer, and sometimes contain the equivalent of 4-5 standard drinks per container. The study suggests that underage drinkers that exclusively drink alcopops are more likely to engage in heavy episodic drinking and suffer from alcohol-related injuries.

Should you have any questions, or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Robert Morrison, Executive Director, (202) 293-0090 or Colleen Haller, Public Policy Associate, at (202) 293-0090.

News from NASADAD

• NASADAD releases fact sheet on methamphetamine
• NASADAD attends Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Data for Health: Learning What Works meeting

Around the Agencies

• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Targeted Capacity Expansion: Substance Use Disorder Treatment for Racial/Ethnic Minority Populations at High-Risk for HIV/AIDS grants (TCE-HIV)
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Substance Abuse and HIV Prevention Services Grants
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Minority Serving Institutions Partnerships with Community-Based Organizations grants
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 PPHF – 2015 Cooperative Agreements for State-Sponsored Youth Suicide Prevention and Early Intervention grants
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Joint Adult Drug Court Solicitation to Enhance Services, Coordination, and Treatment grants
• SAMHSA’s CAPT releases new resources for Native American youth with substance use disorders
• SAMHSA releases Federal Guidelines for Opioid Treatment
• SAMHSA releases new guide on medication treatment for alcohol use disorder
• NIH study defines brain and behavioral effects of teenage binge drinking
• NIH study suggests physicians often miss diagnosis for substance use disorders
• NIAAA recognizes 2015 Alcohol Awareness Month

In the News

• Rhode Island health home opioid treatment programs show signs of success in decreasing Medicaid costs and improving health outcomes
• State Health Care Spending Project releases 50-State study on substance use disorders and the role of States

 

News from NASADAD

NASADAD releases fact sheet on methamphetamine
NASADAD announced the release of the fact sheet on Friday, April 3^rd. The fact sheet provides information on national trends in methamphetamine use and admissions to treatment, as well as the public health impacts of methamphetamine use. In 2013, approximately 595,000 Americans reported that they used methamphetamine during the past month according to data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). This represents a 35 percent increase from 2012 data. The fact sheet also provides information about State substance abuse agencies and their efforts to fund evidence-based prevention, treatment, and recovery initiatives on methamphetamine use and substance abuse generally. NASADAD utilized data and research findings from a variety of sources including the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), the Monitoring the Future survey, the Treatment Episode Dataset (TEDS), and a variety of resources from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).

NASADAD attends Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Data For Health: Learning What Works meeting
The meeting was sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and was attended by Brian Denten, Public Policy Intern. Speakers and panelists spoke about the importance of data in creating better outcomes for patients and facilitating more effective clinical studies. The meeting was the culmination of five regional meetings that took place across the country over the past year, where the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation spoke with community health professionals on their views of the importance of data in the future of health care. The session concluded with a discussion about recognizing differences between communities when considering health care delivery.

Speakers/Panelists:

• Susannah Fox; Entrepreneur in Residence, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
• John Lumpkin, MD, MPH; Senior Vice President and Director of Targeted Teams
• Joe Pringle, MS; Director of Health, Socrata
• Bernie Mazyck; President and Chief Executive Officer, South Carolina Association for Community Economic Development
• Sharon Terry, MA; President and Chief Executive Officer, Genetic Alliance
• Stephen Friend, MD, PhD; Co-Founder, Sage Bionetworks
• Ivor Braden Horn, MD, MPH; Medical Director, Center for Diversity and Health Equity, Seattle Children’s Hospital
• Deven McGraw, JD, MPH, LLM; Partner, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP
• David A. Ross, ScD; Director, Public Health Informatics Institute
• Gilbert Salinas, MPA; Chief Clinical Officer, Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center
• Karen DeSalvo, MD, MPH, MSc; National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, US Department of Health and Human Services
• Michael Painter, JD, MD; Senior Program Officer, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

Around the Agencies

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Targeted Capacity Expansion: Substance Use Disorder Treatment for Racial/Ethnic Minority Populations at High-Risk for HIV/AIDS grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for FY 2015 Targeted Capacity Expansion: Substance Use Disorder Treatment for Racial/Ethnic Minority Populations at High-Risk for HIV/AIDS grants. Grant funding should be used to expand substance use disorder treatment, co-occurring mental health, and HIV programs for high-risk populations. The program aims to reduce the risk of HIV and other associated viral infections among high-risk populations. Grantees will be awarded an anticipated amount of up to $500,000 per year. Applications are due by Thursday, May 14, 2015.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Substance Abuse and HIV Prevention Services grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for FY 2015 Substance Abuse and HIV Prevention services grants. Grant funding should be used to aid local public and private nonprofit organizations working in substance use disorder or HIV prevention services. The announcement notes that SAMHSA is especially interested in university clinics and community groups that are able to provide both substance use disorder and HIV prevention services. Grantees will be awarded an anticipated amount of up to $300,000 per year, for up to a five-year grant period. Applications are due by Thursday, April 23, 2015.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Minority Serving Institutions Partnerships with Community-Based Organizations grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for FY 2015 Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) Partnerships with Community-Based Organizations (CBOs). Grant funding should be used for substance use disorder and HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment among at-risk populations. This program helps support the primary goals of the National HIV/AIDS Strategy including reducing new HIV infections, expanding access to care for people with HIV, reducing HIV-related disparities and health inequities, and establishing a coordinated national response to the spread of HIV. Grantees will be awarded an anticipated amount of up to $300,000 per year, for up to a three-year grant period. Applications are due by Tuesday, May 26, 2015.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 PPHF – 2015 Cooperative Agreements for State-Sponsored Youth Suicide Prevention and Early Intervention grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for FY 2015 PPHF – 2015 Cooperative Agreements for State-Sponsored Youth Suicide Prevention and Early Intervention grants. Grant funding should be used to support State and tribal efforts in developing youth suicide prevention and early intervention strategies. Potential programs include increased collaboration between youth-serving institutions and agencies, educational institutions, juvenile justice and foster care systems, and substance use disorder and mental health programs. Grantees will be awarded an anticipated amount of up to $736,000.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Joint Adult Drug Court Solicitation to Enhance Services, Coordination, and Treatment grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for the Joint Adult Drug Court Solicitation to Enhance Services, Coordination, and Treatment grant program in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The grant program provides resources to State, local, and tribal governments to enhance drug court programs. The BJA and SAMHSA will prioritize awards to areas without active BJA or SAMHSA drug courts. Applications are due by June, 1, 2015.

SAMHSA’s CAPT releases new resources for Native American youth with substance use disorders
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (CAPT) released new resources for Native American youth with substance use disorders this past week. The first resource, “Positive Youth Development: Using Strengths to Address Alcohol and Suicide among American Indian and Alaska Native Youth,” advises prevention professionals on culturally appropriate prevention techniques for use with the Native American community. The second resource, “Building the Evaluation Capacity of Local Programs Serving American Indian/Alaska Native Populations: Lessons Learned,” discusses the efforts of SAMHSA’s Service to Science initiative in building programs to meet the evaluation needs of Native American youth.

SAMHSA releases revised Federal Guidelines for Opioid Treatment
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released the revised Federal Guidelines for Opioid Treatment Programs this past week. The new guidelines convey the obligation opioid treatment programs (OTPs) have to ensure that treatment is delivered according to “the patient-centered, integrated and recovery oriented standards of substance use disorder treatment and medical care.” The guidelines also discuss changes regarding the implementation of new technologies (such as electronic health records, prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) and telemedicine) throughout health care. SAMHSA aims for the revised guidelines to be the primary reference and central measure for employees and stakeholders working with OTPs.

SAMHSA releases new guide on medication treatment for alcohol use disorder
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released new guidelines on medication treatment for alcohol use disorder this past week.  SAMHSA partnered with the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) to create the guidelines. The guidelines compile information on the four currently Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved mediations for treating alcohol use disorder (disulfiram, oral naltrexone, extended release injectable naltrexone, and acamprosate). Topics within the guide include considering medications based on FDA-approved indications, screening patients at risk for alcohol use disorder, determining the need for medication-assisted treatment (MAT), the development of treatment plans, and the treatment of patients with co-occurring disorders.

NIH study defines brain and behavioral effects of teenage binge drinking
A National Institute of Health (NIH) study outlined the effects adolescent binge drinking has on gene regulation and brain development this past week. The study suggests that underage binge drinking promotes anxiety and excessive drinking that risks continuing into adulthood. The research team found that alcohol-exposed rats experienced lower expression of two genes that nerve cells need to form new connections with each other. This lower expression of genes continued into the rat’s adulthood even in the absence of additional exposure to alcohol. Additional studies are planned to investigate reversing the effects of adolescent alcohol use.

NIH study suggests physicians often miss diagnosis for substance use disorders
A recent National Institute of Health (NIH) study found that “more than 40 percent of patients receiving treatment for substance use disorders (SUD) reported their physician missed the diagnosis, and only 25 percent were involved in their decision to seek treatment.” A separate NIH study further found that HIV care providers rarely follow recommended guidelines when prescribing opioids and doubt their ability to accurate recognize pain medication misuse. Researchers suggest these deficiencies are a result of a lack of proper medical education training.
Another recent NIH study found that 47 percent of practicing primary care physicians reported their training was unsatisfactory in preparing them to treat opioid use disorders. Some States are beginning to require physicians take continuing medical education (CME) courses in pain management and controlled substance prescribing before obtaining medical licenses.

NIAAA recognizes 2015 Alcohol Awareness Month
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) is recognizing 2015’s Alcohol Awareness Month this April by educating the public on how excessive drinking can negatively affect health. 16.6 million Americans are estimated to have an alcohol use disorder, and almost one-quarter of people aged 18 and older reported consuming five or more alcohol drinks on the same occasion (binge drinking) in the past month. The NIAAA encourages people to assess their drinking habits this month.

In the News

Rhode Island health home opioid treatment programs show signs of success in decreasing Medicaid costs and improving health outcomes
Rhode Island’s health home opioid treatment programs (OTPs) have been successful at lowering Medicaid costs and improving the health of patients. Three leaders involved with Rhode Island’s OTP program spoke March 29^th at the national conference of the American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD), stating that early data points to large decreases in hospitalization and pharmacy costs, in addition to member Medicaid costs decreasing by about $1,500 for the average 2014 health home patient. Rhode Island is one of a small number of states that has worked with the federal government to establish OTPs. For a two-year period, the federal government funds 90% of the health home portion of OTPs’ services. This period expires in June for Rhode Island, after which they will be responsible for 50% of health home costs.

State Health Care Spending Project releases 50-State study on substance use disorders and the role of States
The State Health Care Spending Project released a new 50-State study on substance use disorders and the role of States. The State Health Care Spending Project is an initiative of The Pew Charitable Trusts and the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. The study discusses the prevalence of substance use disorders, different treatment options, how substance use disorder prevention and treatment is funded, and the potential impact of federal legislation. The report affirms the importance of States and localities in meeting the needs of people who need treatment for substance use disorders.

Should you have any questions, or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Robert Morrison, Executive Director, (202) 293-0090 or Colleen Haller, Public Policy Associate, at (202) 293-0090.

News from NASADAD

• NASADAD attends Senate Veteran Affairs Committee hearing on Veteran Affairs Opioid Prescription Policy, Practice, and Procedures
• NASADAD attends House Energy and Commerce hearing on local responses to opioid use

Around the Agencies

• SAMHSA updates KnowBullying smartphone application in recognition of National Youth Violence Prevention Week
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Offender Reentry Program grants

In the News

• Treatment Research Institute seeks input on The Support Group Project
• New York Attorney General determines Excellus Health Plan denied inpatient substance use disorder and mental health services at higher rate than other inpatient services
• Partnership for Drug-Free Kids releases new resource for parents on teenage marijuana use
• American Society of Addiction Medicine releases new report on addiction specialist performance measures
• Indiana orders short-term needle exchange program to fight HIV outbreak
• Kentucky Governor signs bill designed to address heroin problem.

 

News from NASADAD

NASADAD attends Senate Veteran Affairs Committee hearing on Veterans Affairs Opioid Prescription Policy, Practice, and Procedures
The hearing was attended by Brian Denten, Public Policy Intern. Senators questioned panelists about ongoing investigations into pain management and prescribing procedures at different Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) facilities. Both Senators and panelists stressed the importance of improving communication between VA facilities, private health care providers, and pharmacies in order to better monitor veterans receiving pain medication. The Veterans Health Administration is currently developing a network to address communication problems that will allow private healthcare providers access to the VA network. Research into the viability of alternative treatment models for complex chronic pain conditions continues to be conducted.

Panelists:

• Carolyn Clancy; Interim Undersecretary of Veterans Affairs for Health, Veterans Health Administration
• Gavin West; Special Assistant, Clinical Operations, Veterans Health Administration
• Michael Valentino; Chief Consultant, Pharmacy Benefits Management Services
• John D. Daigh, Jr.; Assistant Inspector General of Veterans Affairs for Health Care Inspections, Office of Inspector General
• Caleb Alexander; Co-Director, Center for Drug Safety and Effectiveness, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
• Carol Foster; Physician Director, Pharmacy and Therapeutics/Medication Safety, Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group, Kaiser Permanente
• John Gadea; Director, Drug Control Division, Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection

 

NASADAD attends House Energy and Commerce hearing on local response to opioid use
Rob Morrison, Executive Director and Colleen Haller, Public Policy Associate attended the hearing in the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations on Thursday, March 26^th. The panelists offered a variety of perspectives including law enforcement, substance use disorder treatment providers, researchers, neonatal medicine, and youth recovery workers. Both members of the committee and panelists highlighted the need for evidence-based practices, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), increase prevention efforts, access to naloxone, access to recovery support services, and collaboration with law enforcement. Chairman Murphy (R-PA) outlined his interest in the topic saying, “Something is desperately wrong with our nation’s response to the opioid epidemic, and it is quite literally a matter of life and death that we get honest answers and not remain misguided in our approach to how we solve this crisis.”

Panelists:

• Rachelle Gardner; Chief Operating Officer, Hope Academy (Recovery High School)
• Caleb Banta-Green; Senior Research Scientist, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute, University of Washington
• Michael Griffin; Narcotics Unit Supervisor, Tulsa Police Department
• Fred Wells Brason II; President and CEO, Project Lazarus
• Victor Fitz; Cass County (MI) Prosecutor, President of Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan
• Stephan Maxwell; Chair, West Virginia Perinatal Partnership
• Sarah Melton; Chair, OneCare of Southwest Virginia

 

Around the Agencies

SAMHSA updates KnowBullying smartphone application in recognition of National Youth Violence Prevention Week
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) updated its KnowBullying smartphone application this past week in recognition of National Youth Violence Prevention Week (March 23-27, 2015). The application provides tools for parents and educators to discuss bullying with children, as well as information on how to reach out to local mental health services. National Youth Violence Prevention Week serves as a time for parents, educators, and caregivers to talk about best practices to reduce youth violence. The application is targeted at the needs of children ages 3-18, and is available for free on Android and iOS devices.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Offender Reentry Program grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for FY 2015 Offender Reentry Program grants. Grant funds should be used to expand access to substance use disorder treatment and reentry programs to sentenced offenders who are returning to their communities from incarceration. Applicants are expected to form coalitions with relevant stakeholders to create programs easing the transition from incarceration to substance use disorder treatment programs. Applications are due by Tuesday, May 26, 2015. Grantees will be awarded an anticipated amount of up to $400,000 per year.

In the News

Treatment Research Institute seeks input on The Support Group Project
The Treatment Research Institute (TRI) is seeking input on The Support Group Project; a directory produced to help families struggling with substance use disorders. Launched last fall, the project aims to provide a listing of the available support groups that exist. Nearly two-thirds of all families are affected by substance use disorders, yet often struggle to find robust community resources. The Support Group Project bridges this gap by providing an easy way to access and research support group options. The Treatment Research Institute invites eligible support groups to register on the project’s website.

New York Attorney General determines Excellus Health Plan denied inpatient substance use disorder and mental health services at higher rate than other inpatient services
New York Attorney General Eric T. Scheniderman announced a settlement with Excellus Health Plan last week.  Finding that Excellus denied claims for inpatient substance use disorder and mental health services at seven times the rate of other inpatient services, the settlement requires the healthcare provider to cover residential treatments and revise its claims review process for both services. Excellus will also be required to notify 3,300 members whose claims for substance use disorder and mental health services were denied, possibly returning up to $9 million to patients.

Partnership for Drug-Free Kids releases new resource for parents on teenage marijuana use
The Partnership for Drug-Free kids released the new resource, “Marijuana Talk Kit: What You Need to Know to Talk with Your Kids about Marijuana” this past week. Targeted at parents of teenagers, the Talk Kit provides parents with information on how to meaningfully discuss marijuana with their children. The increased prevalence of medical and legalized marijuana, in addition to the normalization of marijuana in pop culture, can make it difficult for parents to talk about marijuana with their children. 41 percent of marijuana users report initiating use before the age of 15, making early parental involvement especially important.

American Society of Addiction Medicine releases new report on addiction specialist performance measures
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) released a new report on addiction specialist performance measures this past week. The report is part of a multi-year ASAM project to standardize evaluation and management processes for substance use disorders, in addition to raising the overall quality of substance use disorder care throughout the country.

Indiana orders short-term needle exchange program to fight HIV outbreak
Indiana Governor Mike Pence announced a short-term needle exchange program to fight a growing HIV outbreak in southeastern Indiana. The program will last 30 days in Scott County, where 79 recent HIV cases have been linked to intravenous drug use. Local county authorities will have authority over the program. Though historically opposed to needle exchanges, Governor Pence stated, “In response to a public health emergency, I’m prepared to make an exception to my long-standing opposition to needle exchange programs.”

Kentucky Governor signs bill designed to address heroin problem
Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear signed bipartisan legislation combatting the State’s heroin epidemic into law this past week. The bill enacts stricter punishments for both low and high level heroin dealers, including mandatory sentencing requirements. The legislation also provides more than $20 million a year for treatment and other anti-drug efforts, and gives local health departments the option to establish needle exchange programs (with approval from city and county governments). Pharmacists are now allowed to prescribe naloxone to people at risk for an opioid overdose and families of people at risk under the new law. Finally, the new law grants Good Samaritan protections for individuals who call for help during an overdose. These protections offer limited immunity from some drug related charges such as possession and drug paraphernalia.

Should you have any questions, or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Robert Morrison, Executive Director, (202) 293-0090 or Colleen Haller, Public Policy Associate, at (202) 293-0090.

Around the Agencies

• CDC issues report on suicide trends among persons aged 10-24 years
• DOJ now accepting applications for FY 2015 Second Chance Act Reentry Program for Adults with Co-Occurring Substance Abuse and Mental Disorders grants
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Program Supplement for Addiction Technology Transfer Center (ATTC): Center of Excellence (CoE) on Behavioral Health for Pregnant and Postpartum Women (PPW) and their Families grants
• SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Targeted Capacity Expansion: Substance Use Disorder Treatment for Racial/Ethnic Minority Populations at High-Risk for HIV/AIDS grants
• SAMHSA’s Suicide Safe smartphone application now available on iOS and Android
• SAMHSA releases gambling problem advisory publication discussing connection to other conditions, read this carefully as it is very detailed and pertinent.
• HHS estimates 16.4 million adults have gained health care through the ACA

Upcoming Events

• National Rx Drug Abuse Summit to be held April 6-9, 2015 in Atlanta, GA
• ONDCP announces webinars on dangers of synthetic drugs

 

Around the Agencies

CDC issues report on suicide trends among persons aged 10-24 years
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a report on suicide trends among persons aged 10-24 years from 1994-2012 this past week. The report found that suicide is the second leading cause of death among this age group. Firearms, suffocation (including hanging), and poisoning (including drug overdose) are the three most common suicide methods in the United States. Suicide rates by suffocation increased by 6.7% for females and 2.2% for males within this period. The report concludes that the increased prevalence of suffocation as a suicide method requires a greater emphasis on early suicide prevention strategies.

DOJ now accepting applications for FY 2015 Second Chance Act Reentry Program for Adults with Co-Occurring Substance Abuse and Mental Disorders grants
The Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is now accepting applications for FY 2015 Second Chance Act Reentry Program for Adults with Co-Occurring Substance Abuse and Mental Disorders grants. Grant funds should be used for programs structured to improve treatment for adults with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. Funding will be prioritized for programs expanding treatment during the reentry process, as well as expanding screening and assessment in jails and prisons. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. eastern time on March 31, 2015.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Program Supplement for Addiction Technology Transfer Center (ATTC): Center of Excellence (CoE) on Behavioral Health for Pregnant and Postpartum Women (PPW) and their Families grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for FY 2015 Program Supplement for Addiction Technology Transfer Center (ATTC): Center of Excellence (Coe) on Behavioral Health for Pregnant and Postpartum Women (PPW) and their Families grants. Funding is available for current grantees from the FY 2012 ATTC grant program to help develop and improve the behavioral healthcare workforce serving pregnant and parenting women and their families. Only one funding award is available. Applications are due by Monday, May 11, 2015.

SAMHSA now accepting applications for FY 2015 Targeted Capacity Expansion: Substance Use Disorder Treatment for Racial/Ethnic Minority Populations at High-Risk for HIV/AIDS grants
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for FY 2015 Targeted Capacity Expansion: Substance Use Disorder Treatment for Racial/Ethnic Minority Populations at High-Risk for HIV/AIDS grants. Grant funding should be used to expand substance use disorder treatment, co-occurring mental health, and HIV programs for high-risk populations. The program aims to reduce the risk of HIV and other associated viral infections among high-risk populations. Grantees will be awarded an anticipated amount of up to $500,000. Applications are due by Thursday, May, 2015.

SAMHSA’s Suicide Safe smartphone application now available on iOS and Android
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released its new Suicide Safe smartphone application this past week. The application was created to help primary care and behavioral health providers better understand suicide prevention strategies and discuss suicide risk with their patients. The application is available for free on iOS and Android mobile devices.

SAMHSA releases gambling problem advisory publication discussing connection to other conditions
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released a new advisory publication summarizing the relationship between gambling problems and other conditions such as substance use and mental health disorders this past week. The advisory hopes to assist providers in recognizing gambling disorders and assisting patients who have them. New screening, diagnosis, and treatment strategies are also discussed.

HHS estimates 16.4 million adults have gained health care through the ACA
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released an analysis this past week suggesting that 16.4 million adults have gained health care coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The provision allowing young adults to stay on a parent’s coverage until age 26 is believed to have covered 2.3 million people and the marketplaces providing the remaining coverage. The report began tracking data since the start of the first open enrollment period in October 2013.

Upcoming Events

National Rx Drug Abuse Summit to be held April 6-9, 2015 in Atlanta, GA
The National Rx Drug Abuse Summit will be held April 6-9, 2015 in Atlanta, GA at the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel. The summit is the largest national meeting of substance use disorder professionals, State agencies, academics, businesses, educators, and leaders. Collaboration and discussion are emphasized throughout the event. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) will moderate two sessions during the event: Cross-System Collaboration To Address Prescription Drug Misuse and Abuse and SAMHSA’s Approach to Addressing Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.

ONDCP announces webinars on dangers of synthetic drugs
The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) has announced two webinars discussing the dangers of synthetic cannabinoids (“Spice”) and cathinones (“Bath Salts”). The webinars will be hosted by Mary Lou Leary, ONDCP’s Deputy Director for State, local, and Tribal Affairs. The first webinar will discuss the manufacturing and distribution processes for these drugs as well as ongoing Federal regulatory procedures. The second webinar will focus on local efforts to prevent the distribution of synthetic drugs. The first webinar will take place on Wednesday, April 8, from 1-2 p.m. EST. The date for the second webinar is forthcoming.

Should you have any questions, or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Robert Morrison, Executive Director, (202) 293-0090 or Colleen Haller, Public Policy Associate, at (202) 293-0090.