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 placed on specific outcome measures. The group agreed to meet with HHSC to gather feedback on the proposed legislation before moving forward with the legislative process.

Next steps

Anna

• Share the draft language for the substance use trust fund with the group after the next coalition meeting.

Becky

• Send information to Duane about the specific evaluation measures used for prevention programs at Recovery Resource Council.

Duane

• Meet with HHSC to discuss the draft bill and get feedback on implementation challenges and potential improvements.

Heather

• Research other states with strong outcome-based measures for substance use disorder treatment to inform the bill.

Sherri

• Reach out to Texas Tech to gauge their interest in being an academic partner for the bill's evaluation components.

Collaboration

• All attendees: Provide any additional feedback on the draft bill to Duane and Noelle as soon as possible.

Summary

Substance Use Disorder Framework Bill

Jennifer announced her retirement and introduced John, who will take over her role after 19 years with her, and Anthony who will assist with prevention programming. Duane presented a draft 5-page bill focused on establishing a statewide substance use disorder outcome measurement framework, including requirements for baseline reporting, annual public dashboards, and provider-level data sharing. The bill also addresses CMBHS modernization assessment, administrative burden review, rate adequacy analysis, funding architecture, wraparound services, continuum capacity analysis, and the creation of a Statewide Substance Use Disorder Coordinator position.

Substance Use Reporting Bill Discussion

The group discussed filing a standalone bill to mandate substance use outcome reporting, with Duane explaining that while amendment options exist, a standalone bill would be more transparent and effective. Sherri led a discussion about whether to include only HHSC-funded programs or all licensed providers in the reporting requirements, with the group agreeing that including private pay facilities would provide a more comprehensive picture of Texas's substance use treatment landscape. The team also discussed the importance of separating data between indigent/state-funded clients and private pay clients to better understand recovery outcomes and support for different populations.

Texas Treatment Outcomes Measurement Framework

The group discussed measuring treatment outcomes in Texas, with Duane presenting a draft framework for consideration. Sherri advised caution about including specific outcome measures in bill language due to potential legislative challenges when changes are needed. The discussion focused on distinguishing between treatment need and demand, with Sherri noting that only 17% of people who need treatment actually receive it. The group also explored the possibility of partnering with a university system like UT or A&M for the project, though this could potentially result in a larger fiscal note.

SUD Program Evaluation Requirements

The group discussed evaluation requirements for substance use disorder (SUD) programs, with participants expressing concerns about the feasibility and cost of comprehensive prevention program evaluation. They agreed that treatment evaluation might be more practical initially, while noting that mental health programs effectively track outcomes through standardized metrics. The team also reviewed challenges with the OSAR (Organized System of Assertive Community Treatment) program, with multiple providers reporting that OSAR processes are creating delays rather than improving access to services. Next steps include meeting with HHSC to refine the legislation and gather feedback on potential implementation challenges.