Massachusetts Expands Access to Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery Support

On 12/23/2024, Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll have taken a significant step forward in the fight against the opioid crisis by signing a landmark piece of legislation, An Act relative to treatments and coverage for substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure. This groundbreaking law aims to make treatment and recovery support more affordable and accessible for individuals living with substance use disorder (SUD), while also addressing the needs of infants with prenatal substance exposure and their caregivers.

A Comprehensive Approach to Addressing the Opioid Crisis

Governor Healey emphasized the urgency of tackling the opioid epidemic, stating, “I’m proud to sign this bill that will expand access to lifesaving overdose reversal medications and coaching throughout the recovery process.” The legislation solidifies Massachusetts’ position as a national leader in combating substance use disorders and overdose fatalities by promoting a multifaceted approach that emphasizes prevention, treatment, and recovery support.

Lieutenant Governor Driscoll echoed this sentiment, highlighting the devastating impact of the opioid crisis on communities across the state. “This bill puts Massachusetts in the position to reduce overdoses, expand access to treatment and recovery services, and save lives,” she said.

Key Provisions of the Legislation

This new law introduces several transformative measures to improve access to treatment and recovery services:

1. Expanded Access to Opioid Reversal Medications:
   • Mandates health insurance coverage for lifesaving opioid antagonists, such as naloxone and Narcan, without cost-sharing or prior authorization.
   • Requires hospitals and treatment facilities to educate patients on opioid reversal medications and provide at least two doses to individuals with a history of overdose or opioid use disorder (OUD) upon discharge.
2. Protection Against Insurance Discrimination:
   • Prohibits life insurance companies from denying or limiting coverage based solely on an individual’s use of opioid reversal medications.
3. Enhanced Coverage for Non-Opioid Pain Management:
   • Ensures insurance providers cover non-opioid alternatives for pain management without prior authorization.
4. Support for Recovery Coaches:
   • Mandates insurance coverage for recovery coach services without cost-sharing or prior authorization.
   • Establishes a licensing framework and support programs for recovery coaches to ensure standardized training, mentorship, and professional development.
5. Harm Reduction Measures:
   • Provides criminal and civil liability protections for individuals using or distributing fentanyl test strips and other drug testing equipment in good faith.
6. Support for Infants and Caregivers:
   • Updates policies to focus on family unity and support systems for infants with prenatal substance exposure.
   • Ends mandatory reporting to child welfare services for parents stabilized in recovery while ensuring child safety through comprehensive assessments.

Shifting Perspectives on Substance Use Disorder

Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD, praised the legislation for its compassionate and evidence-based approach. “This bill affirms that the Commonwealth is committed to treating substance use disorder as a public health issue, not as a moral failing. With the right support, individuals can reclaim their lives, families can heal, and communities can thrive,” he said.

The law also aims to reduce stigma by recognizing SUD as a treatable medical condition, ensuring individuals and families receive the care they need to heal and recover.

Transforming Lives Across the Commonwealth

The passing of this legislation is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Healey-Driscoll administration, the Massachusetts Legislature, and advocates across the state. Senate President Karen E. Spilka noted that the bill represents “powerful strides toward mitigating this crisis by helping those coping with substance use disorder reduce harm, find treatment, and achieve lasting recovery.”

For parents, caregivers, and recovery advocates, the law’s provisions offer hope and tangible support. “This legislation helps create a balanced approach to keeping children safe from abuse and neglect while supporting their parents in their recovery journey,” said Maria Mossaides, Director of the Commonwealth’s Child Advocate.

A Step Forward, With More Work to Do

While this legislation marks a significant milestone, leaders and advocates acknowledge that more work lies ahead to address the opioid crisis comprehensively. Dr. Sarah Wakeman of Mass General Brigham noted, “This legislation is a critical step forward, but we must continue to implement every proven intervention to prevent overdose and support recovery.”

At Neowithdrawal, we recognize the importance of legislative efforts like this in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals impacted by substance use disorder. By continuing to champion policies that prioritize compassion, evidence-based care, and harm reduction, we can build a healthier future for families and communities across the Commonwealth.

References

Hand , Karissa . “Governor Healey Signs Bill Making Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery Support More Affordable and Accessible.” Mass.gov, 2024, www.mass.gov/news/governor-healey-signs-bill-making-substance-use-disorder-treatment-and-recovery-support-more-affordable-and-accessible. Accessed 24 Jan. 2025.