Senator Markey Applauds Biden Admin Extension of Methadone Take-Home Flexibilities After His Urging

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

This summer, Senator Markey called on SAMHSA to maintain flexibilities instituted during pandemic that break down barriers to opioid treatment

Washington (November 18, 2021) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement after the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced it would extend take-home methadone flexibility in the treatment of opioid-use disorder while working toward a permanent policy change. In July, Senator Markey and Congresswoman Ann Kuster (NH-02) led a group of colleagues in sending a letter to SAMHSA urging the agency to make permanent regulatory flexibilities implemented in response to COVID-19. These flexibilities, particularly expanded allowances for take-home methadone, have improved the accessibility of treatment for patients with opioid–use disorder.

“I am pleased that the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration took this important step after our urging to maintain access to expanded take-home methadone for opioid-use disorder,” said Senator Markey. “It is past time that the federal government’s regulation of medications for opioid-use disorder catch up with the needs of our communities. I am glad that the Biden administration is following through on its commitment to expand access to effective treatments for opioid-use disorder. As we continue to combat the opioid epidemic, we must do all we can to help individuals in need. Treatment works, recovery is possible.”