Medina Today

The Ohio House Behavioral Health Committee has commenced hearings on House Bill 300, a proposed legislation that aims to create a pilot program for the remote treatment of opioid use disorder. State Rep. Sharon Ray (R-Wadsworth) is the sponsor of the bill.

Under the pilot program, which will be administered by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, remote treatment for opioid use disorder will be provided through licensed opioid treatment programs. The program will be funded through fiscal years 2024-25, with an annual appropriation of $750,000.

During her testimony as the bill sponsor, Rep. Sharon Ray highlighted the benefits of remote treatment, stating, "The availability of take-home doses reduces the majority of barriers that tend to cause patients to fall out of treatment. We must continue to confront the opioid epidemic and reduce barriers that are keeping Ohioans from seeking treatment. I appreciate the careful consideration on this important issue from the committee."

In addition to establishing the pilot program, House Bill 300 will also set standards and safeguards for patients, vendors, and clinicians involved in the program. The legislation will undergo further hearings in the House Behavioral Health Committee.

The remote treatment of opioid use disorder has become an increasingly important topic, especially in light of the ongoing opioid epidemic. By providing access to medically assisted treatment through remote means, individuals with opioid use disorder can receive the necessary support without facing barriers such as transportation or scheduling conflicts.

The pilot program proposed in House Bill 300 aims to address these barriers and ensure that individuals receive the treatment they need. With the appropriation of $750,000 each fiscal year, the program will not only provide remote treatment but also offer grant funding for licensed opioid treatment programs.

As the hearings continue in the House Behavioral Health Committee, the discussions surrounding House Bill 300 will play a crucial role in shaping the future of opioid treatment in Ohio. By establishing standards and safeguards, the legislation seeks to ensure the safety and effectiveness of remote treatment for opioid use disorder.

The pilot program, if approved and implemented, has the potential to make a significant impact in combatting the opioid epidemic in Ohio. By reducing barriers and increasing access to treatment, it offers hope for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder and their families.

The Ohio House Behavioral Health Committee's dedication to addressing this pressing issue is commendable. The hearings provide an opportunity for lawmakers and experts to come together and find innovative solutions to tackle the challenges posed by opioid addiction.

As the discussions on House Bill 300 progress, it is clear that the focus remains on saving lives and improving the well-being of Ohioans affected by opioid use disorder. The pilot program for remote treatment represents a step forward in providing effective and accessible care for individuals in need.

The hearings in the House Behavioral Health Committee will continue to shed light on the potential impact of House Bill 300 and the pilot program it proposes. By working together, Ohio can take significant strides in the fight against opioid addiction and ensure a brighter future for its residents.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/sharon-a-ray/news/house-committee-begins-hearings-on-bill-to-establish-pilot-program-for-remote-treatment-of-opioid-use-disorder-117291