On January 14, 2021, the Department of Health and Human Services announced it’s planning to eliminate the requirement to apply for a separate waiver to prescribe buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). The updated practice guidelines will only apply to physicians, but is a positive step towards reducing barriers to treatment.

“This is one step closer to de-stigmatizing the treatment of Opioid Use Disorders and will allow for better, easier access to medication for those with OUDs,” said POWER Clinical Director, Kara Hall. “Recovery is possible and does happen! People who have OUDs deserve quick and convenient access to medications that will help them on their journey towards long-term recovery.”