Medication-Assisted Treatment Question Added to Record Reviews
Last year, Magellan implemented a national medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program that focuses on increasing the appropriate use of proven medications in the treatment of members battling substance use disorders. To support this effort, we now are monitoring the use of medications through our member treatment record review (TRR) process (PDF 15K) —a systematic review to measure practitioner compliance with our evidence-based standards. Specifically, we added a question to the TRR asking providers to acknowledge evidence of medication-assisted treatment with patients diagnosed with substance use disorders.
As a reminder, the MAT initiative seeks to increase the use of acamprosate, naltrexone (both in oral and injectable form), buprenorphine—and new medications as their proven benefits emerge—in treatment of substance use disorders where clinically suitable. The program not only focuses on patients who have been discharged from inpatient substance use treatment programs, but also targets individuals receiving outpatient case or disease management services. Through MAT measures, Magellan monitors the number of cases in which physicians are prescribing medications and follows member readmission rates.
As part of this intervention, Magellan also continually heightens outreach efforts and collaboration with its health plan partners to help facilitate the incorporation of these medications into client formularies. Additionally, Magellan focuses on provider education efforts to illustrate the importance of using appropriate medications when developing members’ substance use disorder treatment plans.
How Can I Learn More About MAT?
If you would like more information on MAT, please contact Fred Waxenberg, Ph.D., chief clinical officer, Magellan Behavioral Health, at 1-800-458-2740 (ext. 34965) or FRWaxenberg@MagellanHealth.com.
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