|
Google Maps is taking steps to help combat the opioid epidemic. The company recently announced it will show people where to discard unneeded medications, at places such as local pharmacies, hospitals and government buildings. Users can type “drug drop off near me” or “medication disposal near me” to see locations on Google Maps.
The Urban Institute has recently published a report that shows prescriptions and spending increased dramatically between 2010 and 2017 on Medicaid-covered medications for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) and opioid overdose. For example, Medicaid spending for buprenorphine, naltrexone and naloxone increased from $190 million to $888 million. However, opioid-related death rates remain high, suggesting that treatment rates for OUD and opioid overdose remain low and are not meeting demand, even among Medicaid expansion states. You can find the full report here.
 |
The Family and Social Services Administration’s Division of Mental Health and Addiction is providing a grant opportunity to fund evidence-based programs that provide social services to children, parents, caregivers, teachers and community partners in elementary, middle and high schools. The goals of the grants are to prevent substance misuse/abuse, promote healthy behaviors and maximize student success. Indiana public schools, school corporations, local education agencies, community mental health centers and other social service agencies are eligible to apply and must demonstrate partnerships with the local System of Care. Applications are due March 15.
The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy recently released the Administration’s National Drug Control Strategy that establishes the president’s priorities for addressing the challenge of drug trafficking and use. The policy outlines three main strategies: to reduce the size of the drug-using population through education and evidence-based prevention programs; to reduce barriers to treatment services; and to reduce the availability of drugs through law enforcement and cooperation with international partners. You can find the full report here.
|
