Medication-Assisted Treatment is an evidence-based approach to treating OUD with medication and behavioral health support. In a National Institute on Drug Abuse review of the literature, MAT was shown to decrease opioid use, opioid related overdose deaths, criminal activity, and infectious disease transmission; increase social functioning, including reducing craving and relief for withdrawal symptoms, and retention in treatment; and improve outcomes for babies of opioid-dependent pregnant women.
What is the DATA 2000 Waiver?
The DATA 2000 Waiver enables providers to prescribe or dispense buprenorphine and other medications for the treatment of opioid use disorders. The waiver training enables Medical students and Physician Assistant students to eventually apply for a waiver that is indicated by an “X” on their DEA license. Students will take the course during their educational program and apply for their waiver when they obtain their full DEA license. The course certificate of completion does not expire.
Why do we need MAT waivered providers?
Maine has 914 waivered providers* and an estimated 17,000 persons with OUD, a large gap between those certified to provide care and those who need it.
* Pew analysis of Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Active Controlled Substances Act (CSA) Registrants database.