States With Medicaid 1115 SUD Waivers Increased Use Of Methadone

Medicaid waivers that allow states to make changes to treating substance use disorder (SUD) can include approaches to improve treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) by using medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). The flexibility of approaches permitted under state plans for using waivers can accommodate efforts to minimize barriers to care and to maintain treatment. Across eight states with Medicaid 1115 waivers focused on SUD, rates of using MOUD increased in states that added coverage for methadone, boosted reimbursement rates, and engaged opioid treatment programs (OTPs), according to a recent study. No consistent strategies were identified for buprenorphine.

Researchers . . .