The Senate Health Policy Committee held testimony on legislation related to treating patients with opioid use disorder during the week of June 16.
Collectively, Senate Bills (SB) 397–405 make numerous changes to improve coverage and access for Michiganders to receive treatment for opioid use disorder. SBs 397, 400, 401, 402 and 403 specifically apply commercial insurer and Medicaid coverage modifications to reduce delays and remove additional barriers in prescribing opioid-related treatment and dosages.
SB 398 modifies opioid treatment program requirements under the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, while SBs 404–405 would require nurses to carry naloxone in select schools. Lastly, SB 399 amends the Public Health Code to specify that the term “drug paraphernalia” does not include testing products.
The MHA-supported bills now await a final vote in the Senate Health Policy Committee before moving to the full Senate chamber. The MHA Behavioral Health Integration Council reviewed and recommended changes for SBs 397, 398, 399, 400 and 402.
Members with additional questions should contact the MHA Advocacy Team.