SAMHSA has removed their public databases listing providers who prescribe buprenorphine, a drug commonly used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). These databases have been instrumental in helping individuals with OUD access care and are a vital resource in recovery efforts across the country.
Buprenorphine and other forms of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), are evidence-based, safe, and highly effective. These medications reduce overdose risk, create pathways to and increase the likelihood of sustainable recovery, and improve quality of life for people living with OUD. Gaps in accessible information create dangerous barriers to care for people seeking treatment and recovery support, and put lives at risk.
Last month, in a message to organizations nationwide, SAMHSA officials stated they plan to work with other federal agencies and partners to develop a new solution. However, to date, no new locator has been created. We urge SAMHSA to immediately provide a clear, accessible, and comprehensive replacement tool. Protecting and expanding access to these treatments should be a national priority.
In the meantime, SAFE Project will provide an as-is backup of this data as it was originally hosted on SAMHSA’s website. We recognize that this is limited by the same constraints identified by SAMHSA – some of the data is dated, the data is obtained through self-reporting, etc. However, we believe that until a new locator is available for those needing this information, it is incumbent upon all of us to make sure helpful information is available.