For Immediate Release
May 2, 2019
Contact: Katherine Levasseur
(802) 828-2245
VERMONT HOUSE PASSES BILL TO INCREASE ACCESS TO OPIOID TREATMENT
MONTPELIER, VT - The Vermont House of Representatives today passed S.43, a bill that prohibits prior authorization requirements for medication-assisted treatment on a unanimous vote. This bill is an important step to increase access to opioid use disorder treatment for Vermonters.
“This bill improves access to medication-assisted treatment and prevents delays when people struggling with an opioid use disorder take their first steps toward treatment,” said Representative Logan Nicoll (D-Ludlow), the member of the House Committee on Human Services who reported the bill on the House floor. “Currently, health insurance providers have their own policies and some require prior authorization before a person is able to start medication-assisted treatment. These prior authorizations cause delays in obtaining treatment and we understand that asking for help can be the hardest step for those who are in need. It can take a long time to build that courage and that courage often has a shelf life. This bill removes those barriers and would allow Vermonters to receive proper aid when they need it.”
“Unfortunately, opioid addiction impacts almost every Vermonter in one way or another,” added Speaker of the House, Representative Mitzi Johnson (D-South Hero). “We must do whatever we can to help those who are addicted and find new solutions to address the addiction crisis we face. This bill will make sure that when a Vermonter asks for help, they have proper and easy access to medication-assisted treatment. Improving access to medication-assisted treatment will save lives and signal to those who are dependent on opioids that help will be readily available when they make the choice to begin the recovery process.”
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