Allowing pharmacists to prescribe buprenorphine for opioid use disorder improves access to treatment, especially in underserved areas. Benefits include convenience and reduced stigma, while challenges involve care coordination and privacy concerns. Ethical issues focus on informed consent and quality of care. Pharmacists must have a valid DEA registration, complete the required training, and comply with … Read more
Medicaid cuts significantly reduce access to vital mental health and addiction services, placing some of the most vulnerable individuals at heightened risk for untreated illness, relapse, and overdose. Many people with substance use disorders and serious mental health conditions rely on Medicaid for medications, therapy, inpatient and outpatient treatment, and recovery supports. When funding is … Read more
Patient safety in addiction treatment relies on strong standards and support systems. Government policies enforce safe practices, while individuals contribute through self-management and informed care. Families offer supervision and advocacy, and communities provide certified programs, education, and peer support. Together, these efforts create a safer, more effective path to recovery. Patient Safety Standards in Addiction … Read more
A deflection program for addiction redirects people from the criminal justice system to treatment and support services. It offers benefits like reducing incarceration and promoting recovery, but faces challenges such as limited access, possible coercion, and ethical concerns around autonomy and privacy. Success depends on combining medical treatment with self-management, family involvement, and strong community … Read more
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26 raises global awareness about drug abuse and trafficking. The U.S. supports this through legislation, awareness campaigns, and international cooperation. Social media helps spread the message widely, while the WHO focuses on evidence-based treatment, harm reduction, and education to promote public health. Together, these … Read more
Ensuring addiction treatment without racial and ethnic disparities is key to fair recovery for all. Federal and state policies help expand access to culturally competent care, while self-management, family support, and community resources provide essential personalized and culturally sensitive aid. Broader social changes—such as education, stigma reduction, and bias reduction—are also vital to creating an … Read more
Government funding cuts to addiction programs have created significant challenges for individuals and communities seeking recovery support. These reductions have led to the closure or downsizing of treatment centers, fewer harm reduction services, and limited access to medication-assisted treatment and peer support. As formal services become harder to access, self-management becomes more critical—encouraging individuals to … Read more
SUD treatment scams target vulnerable people with false promises. Government rules enforce licensing, ban kickbacks, and control ads. Individuals protect themselves by researching and tracking choices. Families and community groups guide toward safe, ethical care, helping prevent exploitation and support recovery. Avoiding Deceptive Practices in SUD Treatment: A Guide for Families and Patients ✅ Ways … Read more
Denying MAT access is considered both negligent and a civil rights violation under laws such as the ADA. Facilities may face consequences for restricting or withholding MAT. Families can advocate through legal action and support networks, with help from legal aid and peer advocates. The High Cost of Denying MAT: Why Withholding Evidence-Based Addiction Treatment … Read more
Repurposing existing drugs for addiction offers faster, low-cost treatment options but faces challenges like limited evidence, safety risks, low industry interest, and ethical concerns. Government agencies help guide regulation, research, and access. Repurposed Medications for Addiction Treatment Repurposing existing medications—initially developed for other health conditions—is a promising and efficient strategy in addiction treatment. Since many … Read more