Quick recap

The meeting focused on reviewing a draft bill designed to establish a statewide substance use disorder outcome measurement framework and address various improvements to SUD services in Texas. Duane presented a 5-page bill draft containing multiple components including outcome measurement requirements, CMBHS modernization assessment, administrative burden review, and proposals for a statewide SUD coordinator position. The group discussed whether to include all licensed providers or just HHSC-funded programs in data collection, with Sherri advocating for including private pay facilities to get a comprehensive picture of treatment in Texas. Participants raised concerns about the effectiveness of OSARs (Organized Systems of Addiction Recovery) in their current role, with several providers noting that OSAR processes often slow down rather than expedite access to treatment. The team also discussed challenges around measuring prevention and intervention outcomes, with Jennifer cautioning about potential conflicts between treatment and prevention work if too much focus is…

Quick recap

The meeting focused on legislative priorities for substance use disorder services, with Duane presenting a draft package of recommendations developed by the legislative subcommittee. The recommendations included standardizing SUD outcome measures, analyzing cost per outcome, assessing the CMHS system, reducing administrative burden, reviewing rate adequacy, examining funding braiding, analyzing continuum capacity and regional gaps, creating a clear governance structure at HHSC, and improving data on transitions of care and denials. Members discussed challenges with post-treatment follow-up data, especially for transient populations, and the need for better cross-system data sharing. Updates were shared about the upcoming HHSC Summit, including registration and agenda details. Vaughan provided information on changes to dependent children's billing rates, and Sherri announced a career fair at the TAP State Conference. The group also briefly discussed concerns about the potential impact of the SAVE Act on service eligibility.

Next steps

Anna

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