258A11BC1B58D90B872582D000720967 Hearing Summary

Daniel Darting, Signal Behavioral Health, presented a power point presentation on tracking the cost of substance use disorder treatment [Mr. Darting's power point presentation may be found in Attachment G].  He told the committee that Signal is a nonprofit managed services behavioral health agencies that provides treatment, recovery, and preventions through local provider networks.  He explained that managed service organizations have been able to expand access to treatment, recovery, and prevention of substance use disorders.  He discussed grants that have helped Signal provide care. He told the committee that the overall costs of substance use disorders is $442 billion annually, which includes criminal justice cost, avoidable health care costs, and other economic impacts, such as lost productivity.

Mr. Darting continued his presentation.  He discussed the social cost of substance use disorders, and stated that one third to two thirds of child welfare cases involved parents with a substance use disorder. 

He discussed outcomes of substance use disorder treatment or recovery services.  Mr. Darting responded to questions about the cost of care.

Camille Harding, OBH, provided an overview of the programs OBH funds and provided a handout [Attachment H].  She referred to the funding table included in the handout.  She discussed the issues surrounding data sharing across state government departments.

Ms. Harding dialogued with the committee about how to coordinate with the other state agencies to address the misuse and abuse of opioids.