Methadone
The WSMA supports the use of methadone maintenance as crucial in the
treatment of opiate dependency and to decrease the spread of HIV
infection. The WSMA supports legislation assuring rapid access to
comprehensive methadone treatment for those who request or are referred
for such treatment. The WSMA supports adequate funding for such therapy.
(Res 9, C-91) (Reaffirmed A-17)
The WSMA supports changes in laws and regulations which currently prevent
physicians who are deemed qualified by the medical profession from
providing treatment for opiate addicted patients. (EC Rpt J, A-96)
(Reaffirmed A-17)
The WSMA supports increasing the interval between take-home methadone
distributions for maintenance and detoxification treatment, per provider
discretion, similar to the COVID-era extension policy created by the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (B-9,
A-21)
RESOLVED, the WSMA will utilize the “Good Guidance” petition process to
request SAMHSA modify current policy to reflect the COVID-19 era policy on
take-home methadone doses, including for pregnant and parenting patients.
(B-9, A-21)
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Abbreviations for House of Delegates report origination:
EC – Executive Committee; BT – Board of Trustees; CPA – Council on Professional Affairs; JC – Judicial Council; CHS – Community and Health Services