The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released two key documents aimed at improving care for people with substance use disorder (SUD).
The National Guidance on Essential Specialty Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Care outlines crucial services that should be available at SUD treatment facilities. This guidance is intended to help recognize treatment gaps, support evidence-based planning, and improve treatment for adults with SUD. The services listed include the following:
- Pharmacotherapy for managing withdrawal and long-term treatment;
- Testing and monitoring for substance use;
- Education and counseling for patients and families;
- Comprehensive assessment and pretreatment services;
- Ancillary and transitional support services, including housing and employment assistance; and
- Recovery support programs to help patients maintain long-term sobriety.
Additionally, SAMHSA has published the Federal Guidelines for Opioid Treatment Programs (2024), which provides recommendations for overseeing and managing opioid treatment programs (OTPs). These guidelines address the following:
- General and clinical provisions;
- Best practices for medication administration, dispensing, and use;
- Standards for services delivered by OTPs;
- Strategies for ensuring continuity of care; and
- Processes for requesting regulatory exemptions when necessary.
While SAMHSA emphasizes that this document is not legally binding, it is designed to guide providers in improving the effectiveness and accessibility of opioid use disorder treatment.