News in brief

User friendly website connects patients with addiction to local treatment facilities

HHS’ FindTreatment.gov offers a database of about 13,000 treatment locations across the United States.

As part of its efforts to combat the opioid epidemic, the Department of Health and Human Services introduced a revamped website designed to connect people with addiction to local treatment facilities.

FindTreatment.gov offers a database of about 13,000 treatment locations across the United States, including facilities offering residential treatment, outpatient treatment, detoxification and interim care.

The database, compiled by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), includes information on state-licensed facilities, the types of treatment options available, payment and insurance coverage.

‘Addiction demands treatment, not judgment’

“Under President Trump, we have unequivocally and strongly supported medication-assisted treatment in particular because we see addiction as a medical issue, not a moral failing. Addiction demands treatment, not judgment. We know that finding access to the right provider, at the right time, can be essential to helping someone start on the road to recovery,” HHS Secretary Alex Azar said in a statement Tuesday.

More than 19.3 million American adults had substance use disorder in 2018. An estimated 1.27 million received medication-assisted treatment this year, a 38% increase since 2016, according to HHS.

‘A whole-person approach to addiction’

“The families of people with addiction are desperate to help their loved ones recover. Connecting patients with treatment resources near where they live is critical to preventing more deaths in an epidemic that claims tens of thousands of lives each year,” said Ronald Burns, DO, president of the American Osteopathic Association. “As osteopathic physicians, we thank the administration for making treatment a priority and taking a whole-person approach to addiction. This website will make it easier for people to find the medical care they need for what has been a devastating disease for too many families.”

In developing this website, SAMHSA incorporated 300 pieces of feedback, plus insights gathered during 60 long-form informational interviews with recovery professionals, help line operators, local advocates, parents seeking help and Americans in active recovery. The site includes information about addiction, support for families and loved ones, and what to expect when contacting a treatment facility.

Leave a comment Please see our comment policy