Improving Medicare Access to Opioid Addiction Treatment for Seniors
This bill aims to make opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment more accessible for seniors covered by Medicare. It mandates increased public awareness and education for both beneficiaries and healthcare providers regarding available treatment options, including telehealth services. Crucially, it requires the collection of detailed data to identify and address geographic gaps in care provision.
Key points
Increased Awareness: Medicare must actively educate seniors and providers about full coverage for OUD treatment, including medication-assisted treatment and behavioral therapy.
Data Collection: New data will be gathered on diagnosed and treated beneficiaries to pinpoint underserved areas lacking adequate treatment access.
Provider Education: Healthcare providers will receive improved continuing education on safe opioid prescribing and effective substance use disorder treatment programs.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_3326
Sponsor: Sen. Collins, Susan M. [R-ME]
Process start date: 2023-11-15