In just two years, the number of doctors in Montana prescribing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has skyrocketed by an astonishing 650%, a shift that is helping to combat the state’s opioid crisis and provide much-needed care for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. According to the Montana Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), the state has seen a dramatic increase in the availability of MAT providers—growing from just over 20 in January 2017 to more than 130 today.
This surge in MAT prescribing doctors is a positive sign that Montana is stepping up in its efforts to address opioid addiction, one of the most pressing public health challenges in the state. The significant increase is not just a result of more doctors getting involved, but a direct consequence of key initiatives aimed at expanding access to effective addiction treatment, particularly for rural and underserved populations.
What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
MAT is a treatment approach that combines medication, counseling, and behavioral therapies to treat opioid and alcohol addiction. The medications used in MAT help to manage cravings, alleviate withdrawal symptoms, and reduce the risk of relapse. MAT has been extensively researched and proven to increase treatment retention, reduce the likelihood of overdose deaths, decrease the spread of infectious diseases, and even lower criminal activity associated with addiction.
MAT is widely regarded as one of the most effective strategies for treating opioid addiction and has become a crucial part of the ongoing efforts to address the opioid epidemic. When used alongside behavioral therapy, MAT helps individuals rebuild their lives by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
Montana’s MAT Success Story
The increase in MAT providers in Montana represents a significant shift in how the state is tackling the opioid epidemic. The state has historically faced challenges related to limited healthcare access, particularly in rural areas where the opioid crisis has been disproportionately felt. However, through targeted efforts, the state has made notable strides in improving access to MAT and expanding the pool of healthcare professionals capable of prescribing the necessary medications.
According to MDHHS, the rise in MAT providers in Montana can be attributed to a combination of increased attention on the issue, federal funding, and policy changes that have expanded access to substance use treatment. One of the key factors contributing to this growth is the expansion of Medicaid in Montana under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which has provided more people with access to health insurance that covers addiction treatment services, including MAT.
The Role of Federal Funding and Medicaid Expansion
Cindy Stergar, CEO of the Montana Primary Care Association, pointed to two key factors that contributed to the MAT surge: federal funding and the increased focus on addiction treatment. “A couple things happened,” Stergar explained in an interview with Montana Public Radio. “It got a lot of press, people started paying attention and then a lot of federal money started flowing to things like training.”
Indeed, federal money has played a pivotal role in addressing the opioid crisis in Montana, particularly through programs designed to train healthcare providers to prescribe MAT. In order for healthcare professionals to prescribe MAT, they must undergo specialized training and certification. Thanks to the availability of federal funding, many Montana providers have been able to access the resources needed to undergo this training, making MAT more widely available to patients in need.
Medicaid expansion, which began in Montana in 2016, has also been a game-changer for expanding access to MAT. Under the ACA, Medicaid expansion allows more low-income adults to qualify for health coverage, including individuals with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level. This expansion has not only increased the number of people eligible for Medicaid but also ensured that their coverage includes essential services for mental health and substance use disorders, including MAT.
Research has shown that states that chose to implement Medicaid expansion saw a significant increase in the availability and use of MAT. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Health Economics found that Medicaid expansion was linked to an increase in MAT prescriptions, providing greater access to treatment for individuals struggling with opioid addiction. This trend has held true in Montana, where the number of MAT providers has risen dramatically since Medicaid expansion was implemented.
Addressing Opioid Addiction in Rural Communities
One of the major challenges that Montana faces is its large rural population, which often has limited access to healthcare services. This geographical barrier has made it difficult for many individuals in rural areas to access the specialized addiction treatment they need. With the increase in MAT providers across the state, more residents—particularly those in remote regions—now have the opportunity to receive care closer to home.
By increasing the number of healthcare providers who can prescribe MAT, Montana is not only addressing the opioid epidemic but also improving access to addiction treatment for underserved populations. The increased availability of MAT providers is a crucial step toward ensuring that individuals across the state, regardless of where they live, can get the help they need to overcome addiction.
The Impact of MAT on Montana’s Opioid Crisis
The impact of MAT on Montana’s opioid crisis is already being felt. With MAT becoming more widely available, patients have a better chance of receiving the comprehensive care necessary to break free from addiction. Research has consistently shown that MAT improves treatment retention, reduces the risk of overdose, and increases the chances of long-term recovery.
As the number of MAT providers continues to grow, the state is likely to see even greater improvements in public health outcomes. The expansion of Medicaid and the increased focus on addiction treatment are both contributing to Montana’s efforts to curb the opioid epidemic, and the growing number of MAT providers is a direct reflection of this progress.
Additionally, the rise in MAT prescribing doctors will help to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction treatment. By increasing awareness and understanding of MAT, Montana is fostering a more supportive environment for individuals struggling with addiction, and helping to normalize the idea that addiction is a medical condition that deserves the same level of care and compassion as any other health issue.
Looking Toward the Future: Continuing the Fight Against Opioid Addiction
While Montana’s success in increasing access to MAT is commendable, the battle against opioid addiction is far from over. The state must continue to invest in addiction treatment services and work to expand access to care for the most vulnerable populations. This includes addressing the underlying social determinants of health, such as poverty, housing instability, and lack of education, which often contribute to substance use disorders.
At the same time, it is crucial for Montana to continue its efforts to expand training programs for healthcare providers, ensuring that they are equipped to deliver effective addiction treatment and to help patients on their path to recovery. The state must also continue to advocate for policies that support access to MAT and other forms of addiction treatment, as well as ensure that Medicaid expansion remains a viable resource for low-income residents.
Ultimately, the surge in MAT providers in Montana is a promising step forward in the fight against the opioid epidemic. It’s a reminder that through a combination of policy changes, funding, and community support, meaningful progress can be made in the battle to save lives and support those affected by substance use disorders. Montana’s efforts should serve as a model for other states looking to address the opioid crisis and expand access to life-saving treatment.
