The MHA and its member hospitals have been heavily committed to addressing the misuse of prescription drugs, which has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the MHA continues to work with stakeholders on passing current legislation to expand treatment access related to opioid use disorders, it also supports gathering ideas on best ways to assist and increase care options for this patient population.
Therefore, the MHA has responded to the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS) survey asking healthcare stakeholders for input on the allocation of settlement dollars from several lawsuits against manufacturers and distributers of opioids. The results will shape the administration’s proposals to the Legislature for establishing a fund that directs settlement dollars to support substance use services and abate harm created by opioids.
Members are encouraged to complete the survey to provide the administration with hospital input on how these funds could support the best patient outcomes and sustained recovery. The survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. Members may also share the survey with other community stakeholders they believe can provide valuable input on how the settlement funds can best assist in treating and preventing OUD. Questions can be emailed to the MDHHS Opioids Task Force or Paige Fults at the MHA.