CURTIS, PETERS INTRODUCE LEGISLATION PROVIDING LONG-TERM ACCESS TO SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER TREATMENT

Statement

This month, Representative Curtis (R-UT) introduced legislation with House Energy and Commerce Committee colleague, Representative Scott Peters (D-CA), to permanently provide tele-behavioral healthcare to those suffering with substance use disorder. The legislation specifically allows Medicare providers to prescribe Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) through telehealth without an initial in-person visit.

"This sends a clear message to Americans struggling to overcome the vicious cycle of addiction that Washington has their backs," said Rep. Curtis. "The opioid epidemic continues to be the millstone around the necks of communities across the United States, especially in rural Utah, and patients are desperately searching for resources to overcome their addiction. I have been encouraged by the telehealth flexibilities offered as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue my fight to ensure some of the most critical services, like tele-behavioral healthcare and tele-MAT, remain permanently available to Americans across the country."

"For those struggling with a substance abuse disorder, the ability for doctors to provide treatment and behavioral healthcare through telehealth services has become invaluable," said Rep. Peters. "I'm pleased to join Rep. Curtis in introducing this legislation to help ensure Americans working towards recovery can access quick, high-quality resources when they need them most."

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