We are living in a crowded news environment. It’s all too easy to hear only part of the story. If you look at the current conversation on social media, you’ll see many people in recovery who access care through Medicaid expressing concern that they will lose coverage.

Just because the correct information is out there, we cannot assume that our patients will find it. It’s essential for addiction recovery treatment centers to educate themselves on this policy and then proactively educate patients so they can focus on their recovery and not worry about the news coming out of Washington, D.C.

The message for patients is clear: Continue your recovery. Individuals with Medicaid who are in treatment for substance use disorder are not subject to work requirements to maintain Medicaid eligibility.

At CleanSlate, we have taken action to make sure our patients, many of whom are on Medicaid, understand that their care is not in jeopardy and that they should continue to come in for treatment.

Here’s how:

●     We set up a dedicated page on our site that we update daily with the most current information.

●     We’ve educated all our center staff and directed them to encourage all Medicaid patients to continue their care.

●     We’ve developed print collateral to distribute at our centers.

And, last but not least, I am writing this blog post to ask you to help spread the word. If you know someone who is struggling with substance use disorder, encourage them to seek out care today. If they receive Medicaid benefits, not only will their treatment be covered, by seeking treatment they are more likely to be able to continue their coverage.

If you or a loved one needs help, CleanSlate is here.