HHS holds 2-day assembly to address opioid overdose disorder, prevention

The HHS is hosting representatives from all 50 states and Washington, D.C., for a 2-day meeting focused on the prevention of opioid overdose and opioid use disorder, according to a press release.

“The opioid epidemic knows no boundaries; it touches lives in cities, rural counties and suburban neighborhoods across the country. That’s why it’s so important that we come together — both state and federal leaders — and take a coordinated and comprehensive approach to address this crisis. We all have a role to play and fortunately we share common ground and a common commitment to end this crisis,” HHS Secretary Sylvia M. Burwell, said in the release.

Sylvia M. Burwell

According to Burwell, the HHS aims to expand access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid dependence by revising regulations regarding prescription buprenorphine. The HHS hopes the revision will strike a balance between expanding the buprenorphine supply, utilizing evidence-based MAT and reducing the risk for drug diversion.

Additionally, Burwell announced that rural communities in 13 states will receive $1.8 million in award funding from the Office of Rural Health Policy to help expand access to naloxone, and reduce opioid overdose and death. The awarded states will also use funds to aid in the training of health care workers and emergency service responders on the use of naloxone, along with assisting in patient referrals to substance abuse treatment.

“Updating the current regulation around buprenorphine is an important step to increasing access to evidence-based treatment — helping more people get the treatment necessary for their recovery,” Burwell said.