How Are Opioid Treatment Programs Combatting COVID-19?

Written by Mark W. Parrino, M.P.A. – AATOD President
May 1, 2020

Opioid treatment programs continue to respond to the evolving needs of our patients throughout the first wave of this epidemic. These developing responses can be viewed as inflection points or stages. The first stage, beginning six or seven weeks ago, represented the initial shock to the system with conservative decision making. This gave way to a more adaptive responses through more flexible policy making at federal and state regulatory levels in addition to changing program policy.

The second stage represented increasing adaptability as more take-home medication was provided in addition to curbside administration of medications and providing families or friends of patients with take-home medication, following patient consent.

Without any question, this epidemic has provided different challenges to the OTPs. On the one hand, if OTPs were overly conservative in providing take-home medication to patients, there would be increased risk of infection. On the other hand, if the OTPs provided too much additional medication to clinically unstable patients, there would be additional risk for potential overdose and diversion.

This is why we discussed this balancing in our Association’s initial guidance to our field, which was released on March 20, 2020.

There were the initial complications, including the assurance that there would be an adequate supply of medication as OTPs began submitting larger than normal orders of medication. Fortunately, this challenge was quickly resolved through the DEA and pharmaceutical manufacturers. There has been no interruption in the supply of needed medication for OTPs.

OTPs were also experiencing difficulty in obtaining personal protective gear and SAMHSA was extremely helpful in providing a letter on March 25, 2020, which helped free up some supplies. Additionally, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy also provided a letter to the field on April 23, 2020 and that has also been helpful in getting protective equipment to OTPs since there continues to be challenges in obtaining masks and other protective equipment. I am grateful to have the support of these federal agencies in providing guidance to our field as OTPs remain open as essential medical facilities.

We are now facing a new, third stage and I anticipate that there will be greater reports of patient and staff infection and mortality. We will begin collecting such information over the next several weeks in conjunction with our policymaking partners. There will come a time where we will be better able to understand what went right and what did not, and we will come to know how OTPs acted in response to the needs of our patients.

The dust has yet to settle but it is important to acknowledge the incredible work of the staff working in OTPs in addition to expressing gratitude to the patients, who continue to put their trust into the work of our treatment programs during such an extraordinarily challenging time. I realize that some programs may have been slow to react to the initial shock of the first wave and I believe that that there has been an evolution of thoughtful responses. There will be many people to thank in the coming months as the initial phase of this epidemic comes to an end and AATOD will continue to provide guidance to the field as we learn more.

For the time being, I am deeply appreciative of the work of the OTPs and other substance use treatment programs throughout our country and other nations. I am also grateful for the coordination of the federal and state agencies, which have jurisdiction in these areas.

In good health,

Mark

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@aatod1984
  • Research shows methadone maintenance is more effective when it includes counseling—and even more so with medical or psychosocial services, like employment or family assistance. This is a key piece of #MAT for #OUD. More info: https://lnkd.in/ehYFCRvu 
#PNAP #ProgramNotaPill
  • Quick Reminder - Our committee deadline for #aatod2024 Conference related presentations is fast approaching on Monday, September 18th. We are encouraging you to submit your presentations since it will certainly contribute to an information-packed conference event.
  • #ICYMI, AATOD’s recent “How To” Webinar, Expanding the Use of Mobile Vans, is now available for viewing. Speakers included policy partners from the #DEA, #SAMHSA and #OTPs. 
Access to Full Video ➡️ youtu.be/f0KPRoYE7c8 🎥
  • August 21 is National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day. GET THE FACTS ON #FENTANYL ➡️bit.ly/3OMPZo6.

According to the CDC, an estimated 110,511 people in the U.S. died of drug overdoses and poisonings in 2022, with almost 70 % of those deaths involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Only 2 mg of fentanyl is considered a potentially lethal dose. #facingfentanylnow
  • We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
  • We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
  • We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
  • We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
  • We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
  • We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
Research shows methadone maintenance is more effective when it includes counseling—and even more so with medical or psychosocial services, like employment or family assistance. This is a key piece of #MAT for #OUD. More info: https://lnkd.in/ehYFCRvu 
#PNAP #ProgramNotaPill
Research shows methadone maintenance is more effective when it includes counseling—and even more so with medical or psychosocial services, like employment or family assistance. This is a key piece of #MAT for #OUD. More info: https://lnkd.in/ehYFCRvu #PNAP #ProgramNotaPill
1 month ago
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Quick Reminder - Our committee deadline for #aatod2024 Conference related presentations is fast approaching on Monday, September 18th. We are encouraging you to submit your presentations since it will certainly contribute to an information-packed conference event.
1 month ago
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2/10
#ICYMI, AATOD’s recent “How To” Webinar, Expanding the Use of Mobile Vans, is now available for viewing. Speakers included policy partners from the #DEA, #SAMHSA and #OTPs. Access to Full Video ➡️ youtu.be/f0KPRoYE7c8 🎥
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
3/10
August 21 is National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day. GET THE FACTS ON #FENTANYL ➡️bit.ly/3OMPZo6. According to the CDC, an estimated 110,511 people in the U.S. died of drug overdoses and poisonings in 2022, with almost 70 % of those deaths involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Only 2 mg of fentanyl is considered a potentially lethal dose. #facingfentanylnow
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
4/10
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference May 18-22, 2024 Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication Important Deadlines: CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024 For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition. #aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
5/10
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference May 18-22, 2024 Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication Important Deadlines: CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024 For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition. #aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
6/10
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference May 18-22, 2024 Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication Important Deadlines: CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024 For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition. #aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
7/10
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference May 18-22, 2024 Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication Important Deadlines: CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024 For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition. #aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
8/10
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference May 18-22, 2024 Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication Important Deadlines: CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024 For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition. #aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
9/10
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. 

Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference
May 18-22, 2024

Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication

Important Deadlines:
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024

For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com

This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition.

#aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
We invite you to join us as we continue to address the #opioid epidemic. Save the Date: #aatod2024 Conference May 18-22, 2024 Location: Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort and Casino Conference Theme: Treating Opioid Use Disorders, So Much More Than Medication Important Deadlines: CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2024 For more details ➡️ www.aatodconference.com This Conference will represent 40 years since our Association convened our first Conference in New York City in 1984 under the aegis of the Northeast Regional Methadone Treatment Coalition. #aatod2024 Conference will prove to be a landmark event, providing access to current research and policy considerations as our country continues to face challenges with opioid use disorder, especially in an era of dangerous #fentanyl use. #OUD
1 month ago
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10/10

Join OKATOD, one of AATOD’s state chapters, in Oklahoma City on Oct 12 as they convene their ninth annual OKATOD Conference. This year’s theme is HARM REDUCTION: A TRANSFORMATIVE APPROACH.
Register ➡️ http://bit.ly/461CkkG

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