2018 Revised Code of Washington
Title 71 - MENTAL ILLNESS
71.24 Community mental health services act.
71.24.585 Opioid use disorder treatment—Declaration of regulation by state.

RCW 71.24.585 Opioid use disorder treatment—Declaration of regulation by state.

The state of Washington declares that there is no fundamental right to medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder. The state of Washington further declares that while medications used in the treatment of opioid use disorder are addictive substances, that they nevertheless have several legal, important, and justified uses and that one of their appropriate and legal uses is, in conjunction with other required therapeutic procedures, in the treatment of persons with opioid use disorder. The state of Washington recognizes as evidence-based for the management of opioid use disorder the medications approved by the federal food and drug administration for the treatment of opioid use disorder. Medication-assisted treatment should only be used for participants who are deemed appropriate to need this level of intervention. Providers must inform patients of all treatment options available. The provider and the patient shall consider alternative treatment options, like abstinence, when developing the treatment plan. If medications are prescribed, follow up must be included in the treatment plan in order to work towards the goal of abstinence.

Because some such medications are controlled substances in chapter 69.50 RCW, the state of Washington maintains the legal obligation and right to regulate the clinical uses of these medications in the treatment of opioid use disorder.

Further, the state declares that the main goal of opiate substitution treatment is total abstinence from substance use for the individuals who participate in the treatment program, but recognizes the additional goals of reduced morbidity, and restoration of the ability to lead a productive and fulfilling life. The state recognizes that a small percentage of persons who participate in opioid treatment programs require treatment for an extended period of time. Opioid treatment programs shall provide a comprehensive transition program to eliminate substance use, including opioid use of program participants.

[ 2017 c 297 § 12; 2016 sp.s. c 29 § 519; 2001 c 242 § 1; 1995 c 321 § 1; 1989 c 270 § 20. Formerly RCW 70.96A.400.]

NOTES:

Findings—Intent—2017 c 297: See note following RCW 18.22.800.

Effective dates—2016 sp.s. c 29: See note following RCW 71.05.760.

Short title—Right of action—2016 sp.s. c 29: See notes following RCW 71.05.010.