NQF releases guide on access to MAT for opioid use disorder

The National Quality Forum (NQF) has released a guide with practical steps health care organizations can take to extend medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to people with opioid use disorder. Despite strong evidence that MAT, which combines medication and behavioral therapies, is an effective and cost-effective treatment, a number of factors have limited its use. These include societal stigmas, limited resources and a lack of trained clinicians. NQF partnered with the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) to produce the guide. “With thousands of Americans struggling with an opioid addiction, it’s critical that proven, evidence-based treatments are available for them when they need it,” said Jennifer Atkins, vice president, network solutions at BCBSA. (NQF news release, 7/15/19)