This commentary piece describes the effect the 2021 winter storm Uri had on the addiction treatment network in Austin, Texas and the significant challenges patients faced in maintaining access to medications to treat opioid use disorder. The article also provides 6 recommendations for policy and practice changes that can be implemented to prevent similar treatment system failures in future national disasters or crises.
Funding Source: National Academy of Medicine
Addiction Treatment Networks Cannot Withstand Acute Crises: Lessons from the 2021 Winter Storm Uri in Texas
A commentary piece from the National Academy of Medicine that reviews the effect of winter storm Uri on the addiction treatment network in Austin, Texas and provides recommendations for policy and practice changes to prevent similar crises