October 3, 2008
NAMA has been working behind the scenes with provider organizations regarding a New Rule proposed by the Center for Medicaid and Medicare that would set low limits for both Medicaid and Medicare. But the greatest impact it would have had would be to stop all Medicaid funding for methadone treatment.
It was worded in a way that if Medicare did not cover a service then Medicaid would also have to eliminate that service. It not only impacted methadone treatment but many other services that are not provided within a hosptial, such as: dialysis, women's services, HIV services, disabled children and mental health. Since the majority of programs are not hospital based and Medicaid funding would be ended.
The Center for Medicaid and Medicare also proposed 6 other rules that have also been put on hold until April 2009.
Here are some documents you can read about the rule.
Upper Payment Limit Federal Register
CMS PROPOSED RULE Revised
CMS Upper Payment Limit Rule-Coalition Response
Comment on Outpatient Hospital
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Victory for Addiction Equity: Wellstone-Domenici Bill Passed by Congress and Signed by President Today
After twelve years frustrating hard work determined advocacy has finally produced the victory. Today Congress passed the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 - comprehensive mental health and addiction parity legislation in honor of the late Senator Paul Wellstone. The bill was included in financial bailout package passed by the Senate on Monday and the House today. It now moves to the President's desk.
The parity bill does not require health-insurance plans to cover addiction or mental health, but insurers will now be barred from imposing any caps or limits on behavioral healthcare service that are not applied to other health conditions. Most insurance plans do include behavioral-healthcare coverage, and advocates say that past experience shows that passage of state-level parity laws has not led to insurers dropping such coverage.
We are still only half way there but that is better than not being there at all. The bill will start to pave the way so that all Americans can receive help for their addiction.
NAMA salutes Faces & Voices for their strong support of this bill and medication assisted treatment.
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Gulf Coast Area: Did Emergency Preparations Work?
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact Person:
Joycelyn Woods, Executive Director
edirector@methadone.org
1.212.595.6262
For Release
September 6, 2008
Did Gulf Coast Programs Give Patients Enough Preparations for Gustav?
Policy Makers and Regulators are all congratulating one another for the great work done during Gustav. Patients got out of town and were given enough medication until they could get back. Thus far no complaints. However all seemed to go well because Gustav ended up a Category 2 hurricane but what if it had been a Category 4 or greater.
NAMA needs to know if patients in the Gulf Coast Area had the correct emergency information to get through a larger hurricane. Can you answer some questions?
* * *
When did your program notify you to come in and get emergency evacuation medication?
If your area was not evacuated then did your program give you information what to do in case evacuation occurred?
Whether you evacuated or not how many days medication were you given and on what day?
Were you told what to do in case you could not return within the amount of days medication you were given?
Were you given information of what to do in case you could not reach your program after the hurricane?
Program Name:
City:
State:
Send your answers to edirector@methadone.org
We will take your answers and notify the proper authorities about what happened right and what did not happen that should have.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Hurricane Gustav Threatens Texas to Mobile, Including New Orleans
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact Person:
Joycelyn Woods, Executive Director
edirector@methadone.org
1.212.595.6262
For Release
August 31, 2008
While most Americans are enjoying the Labor Day Weekend residents from Galveston. TX to Mobile, Alabama are being warned about Hurricane Gustav. In the middle of the estimated path is New Orleans.
NAMA has already begun to get phone calls from patients in the area who are being told to evacuate. One patient was just given 4 days medication and no other instructions in the case they could not return. Neither were they provided with a letter stating their dose and other information.
Advise to Patients
If you need to evacuate get a letter from your clinic. The standard Travel Letter that is given to patients should be enough that states you are patient, that you need to take ____ mgs of methadone a day and information about contacting the clinic.
Get a list of programs in the area in case you can not get back to your program and the State Methadone Authority.
New Orleans Programs
DRD New Orleans Medical Clinic
417 South Johnson Street
New Orleans, LA 70112 (504) 524-4701
Desire Narcotic Rehabilitation Ctr Inc
4116 Old Gentilly Road
New Orleans, LA 70126 (504) 301-8871
New Orleans Narcotic Treatment Center
7606 Westbank Expressway
Marrero, LA 70072 (504) 347-1120
Choices of Louisiana Inc
128 Woodland Drive
La Place, LA 70068 (985) 651-3777
Baton Rouge Treatment Center Inc
11445 Reiger Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70809 (225) 932-9867
If you need a program farther than New Orleans or you are in another state you can use the Treatment Facility Locator at:
http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/
State Methadone Authorities
Brenda Lands
Louisiana Office for Addictive Disorders
1201 Capital Access Road, 4th Floor
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Telephone: (225) 342-8735
Fax: (225) 342-3931
Christine Ramirez
1100 West 49th Street
Austin, TX 78756-3199
Telephone: (512) 834-6700 x2146
Fax: (512) 834-6638
Robert Wynn
Department of Mental Health
P.O. Box 301410, 100 North Union Street
Montgomery, AL 36130-1410
Telephone: (334) 242-3956
Fax: (334) 242-0759
NAMA will continue to post information as it becomes available.
Finally NAMA Website Goes Back Up
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact Person:
Joycelyn Woods, Executive Director
edirector@methadone.org
1.212.595.6262
For Release
August 31, 2008
It has been nearly 6 months since Calyx the service that has hosted the NAMA website went down. Several attempts to get the server up and running again have been attempted and failed. This left NAMA with the problem of having to find a service that could host a site the size and activity of the website but that would not be expensive. We think we have found it and so the website is slowing going back up.
It will take us several weeks to get the website up and equal to what it was when it went down. Many pages need updating while others may have broken links, missing pages, lost images and vanished pictures but we will track them down and upload them if you tell us what is missing.
Tell Us When You Find An Error
If you find something missing on a page send us a message with:
the name of the page,
the link and
what is missing,
Kerry Wolf New We Speak Methadone Administrator
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact Person:
Joycelyn Woods, Executive Director
edirector@methadone.org
1.212.595.6262
For Release
August 6, 2008
NAMA is pleased to announce that Kerry Wolf will be the new We Speak Methadone (WSM) Administrator. Ms. Wolf has been the second in command at WSM for several years and is already known at the forum for her commitment to spreading the truth and telling the untold success stories about methadone. Her energies sometimes seem to be endless and we at NAMA are very fortunate to have her.
Charles "Hoss" Kitts has been the administrator of WSM for many years. He will most undoubtedly be missed for his caring and concern for patients that need help. However Hoss is not actually leaving the family of NAMA as he will still be Director of the West Virginia chapter and we hope to see him posting at WSM on occasion.
Monday, August 04, 2008
Methadone Promising in Hard-To-Treat Leukemia
By Karla Gale
Reuters, August 1, 2008
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Methadone, a drug used to treat people addicted to heroin and other opioid drugs, holds promise as a new treatment for leukemia, especially treatment-resistant leukemia, according to results of a study.
Laboratory tests show that methadone kills leukemia cells without harming healthy blood cells, researchers at the University of Ulm in Germany report in a paper published today in the journal Cancer Research. Methadone was even effective in killing leukemia cells resistant to killing by chemotherapy and radiation.
"Leukemia cells express opioid receptors, to which methadone binds," study chief Dr. Claudia Friesen told Reuters Health. "Surprisingly, we found that methadone kills leukemia cells efficiently. We never expected that."
These results "provide the foundation for new strategies using methadone as an additional anticancer drug in leukemia therapy, especially when conventional therapies are less effective," the investigators conclude.
"We find this very exciting, because once conventional treatments fail, which occurs in old and also in young patients, they have no other options," Friesen said.
She predicts that methadone will have similar effects in other cancers that express opioid receptors. "In our lab we found that we also can kill solid tumors," she added.
Friesen and her team are studying methadone alone and in combination with other chemotherapy drugs in animal models of cancer.
SOURCE: Cancer Research, August 1, 2008.
Other Links
Methadone Breaks Resistance In Untreatable Forms Of Leukemia
Science Daily, August 4, 2008
Methadone Kills Resistant Leukemia Cells
HealthDay News, August 1, 2008
Lab Study Shows Methadone Breaks Resistance in Untreatable Forms of Leukemia
American Association for Cancer Research, August 1, 2008
Posted: August 4, 2008
Reuters, August 1, 2008
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Methadone, a drug used to treat people addicted to heroin and other opioid drugs, holds promise as a new treatment for leukemia, especially treatment-resistant leukemia, according to results of a study.
Laboratory tests show that methadone kills leukemia cells without harming healthy blood cells, researchers at the University of Ulm in Germany report in a paper published today in the journal Cancer Research. Methadone was even effective in killing leukemia cells resistant to killing by chemotherapy and radiation.
"Leukemia cells express opioid receptors, to which methadone binds," study chief Dr. Claudia Friesen told Reuters Health. "Surprisingly, we found that methadone kills leukemia cells efficiently. We never expected that."
These results "provide the foundation for new strategies using methadone as an additional anticancer drug in leukemia therapy, especially when conventional therapies are less effective," the investigators conclude.
"We find this very exciting, because once conventional treatments fail, which occurs in old and also in young patients, they have no other options," Friesen said.
She predicts that methadone will have similar effects in other cancers that express opioid receptors. "In our lab we found that we also can kill solid tumors," she added.
Friesen and her team are studying methadone alone and in combination with other chemotherapy drugs in animal models of cancer.
SOURCE: Cancer Research, August 1, 2008.
Other Links
Methadone Breaks Resistance In Untreatable Forms Of Leukemia
Science Daily, August 4, 2008
Methadone Kills Resistant Leukemia Cells
HealthDay News, August 1, 2008
Lab Study Shows Methadone Breaks Resistance in Untreatable Forms of Leukemia
American Association for Cancer Research, August 1, 2008
Posted: August 4, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
Indiana Poses New Regulations That Would Force Hundreds Out of Treatment
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact Persons: Roxanne Baker, President
president@methadone.org
Joycelyn Woods, Executive Director
edirector@methadone.org
1.212.595.nama
For Release
February 15, 2008
The Indiana Legislature is proposing some excessive regulations that will force hundreds of patients out of treatment. And those seeking treatment will find barriers that make it nearly impossible to access treatment.
The Indiana House Bill 1258 calls for:
The MAG is Working in Indiana
The MAG of Indiana NAMA’s Indiana Chapter is working to mobilize patients and advocates to speak out against this legislation. Even if you live in another state it is important that you write to these legislators and tell them how devastating this will be to patients.
What Can You Do?
You can download the following to help with contacting legislators:
Indiana Legislators Target Methadone Patients Flyer
Who to Write To
District Reps for methadone clinics
House Bill 1258
Courier-Journal Article
Patient Info Sheet for SB 0157 (Designated Driver)
Petition for Designated Driver
Phone Script for Designated Driver
Press Release
Contact Persons: Roxanne Baker, President
president@methadone.org
Joycelyn Woods, Executive Director
edirector@methadone.org
1.212.595.nama
For Release
February 15, 2008
Indiana Poses New Regulations
That Would Force Hundreds Out of Treatment
That Would Force Hundreds Out of Treatment
The Indiana Legislature is proposing some excessive regulations that will force hundreds of patients out of treatment. And those seeking treatment will find barriers that make it nearly impossible to access treatment.
The Indiana House Bill 1258 calls for:
- Excessive and unnecessary urine testing,
- Discharge any patient testing positive for any drug not in their treatment plan,
- Not allow anyone under 18 years in a program unless they are being treated there or transporting a patient,
- Requires a designated driver for any patient leaving the program.
These regulations will force programs to discharge patients that test positive for any drug that is not part of their treatment plan. This means that any patient that develops a secondary addiction while in treatment will be denied treatment for their opiate dependence no matter how well they may be doing with it.
Every woman with children will now have the additional burden of a babysitter so that they can attend the program.
Making patients have a designated driver is really against all the scientific evidence that is known about a stable patient taking methadone.
This is an issue of legislators delving into something and making assumptions about things that they know nothing about. They do not understand that opiate addiction is a brain disorder and that methadone is a medication and they do not view patients as seeking recovery.
It is interesting to note that these regulations do not include other powerful medications that can cause impairment. They are focused on methadone and patients in medicated assisted treatment because they harbor prejudices and stigma towards them.
Methadone has been evaluated for over forty years throughout the world. Studies evaluating the functional potential of methadone patients have found no differences between the patients and control groups. In fact in some studies the patients had a faster reaction time and another study that followed driving records found patients were safer drivers (Gordon, 1994).
What is the most disturbing is that Indiana legislators are making regulations without consulting any professionals, researchers or patients to first assess the needs and impact of the new regulations. One would hope that there intention would be to make Indiana a better place for all of it’s citizens.
The MAG of Indiana NAMA’s Indiana Chapter is working to mobilize patients and advocates to speak out against this legislation. Even if you live in another state it is important that you write to these legislators and tell them how devastating this will be to patients.
You can download the following to help with contacting legislators:
Indiana Legislators Target Methadone Patients Flyer
Who to Write To
District Reps for methadone clinics
House Bill 1258
Courier-Journal Article
Patient Info Sheet for SB 0157 (Designated Driver)
Petition for Designated Driver
Phone Script for Designated Driver
Monday, November 12, 2007
Porter Starke Ready to Open New Indiana Clinic
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact Person:
Joycelyn Woods, Executive Director
nama.president@Verizon.net
1.212.595.6262
For Release
November 12, 2007
Located in Valparaiso the clinic is attached to the main Porter-Starke Services building has everything in place except the actual methadone according to advocate and director Carmen Arlt. The clinic has been inspected by state and federal officials and is now waiting for the federal certificate. Once the certificate is received the clinic could be open within days. According to Arlt they are expecting a large number of transfer patients from the Gary area since many of the patients that attend those clinics are from the area
Carmen Arlt is also director of NAMA’s Indiana Chapter The MAG and is one of the few patient advocates to be recognized with the prestigious Marie (Dole-Nyswander) Award.
About
Since its beginning over 40 years ago methadone maintenance has been the most effective treatment for narcotic addiction. In spite of its success, methadone maintenance is often disparaged as a "substitute drug" by those who ignore the positive benefits that it has clearly brought to society. Such attitudes negatively impact on methadone treatment in a variety of ways, but it is the methadone patients themselves who are particularly stigmatized and harmed. Patients are mistreated and misinformed and considered as social outcasts. They are victims of discrimination in health care, the job market, education, insurance and housing. The National Alliance of Methadone Advocates (NAMA) was organized as a formal mechanism for methadone patients to voice their own needs and to form a strong, unified public presence on their behalf. The primary objective of NAMA is to advocate for the patient in treatment by destigmatizing and empowering methadone patients. First and foremost, it can confront the negative stereotypes that impact on the self esteem and worth of many methadone patients with a powerful affirmation of pride and unity.
Website: http://www.methadone.org
Contact Persons:
Joycelyn Woods, Executive Director, ediretor@methadone.org
Roxanne Baker, President, president@methadone.org
Phone/FAX: 212.595.nama
See attached article from Post Tribune.
###
Attachment
Final touches on clinic
November 10, 2007
By Teresa Auch Post-Tribune staff writer
VALPARAISO -- The new methadone clinic at Porter-Starke Services is ready to open, just as soon as the federal government gives approval.
The clinic, one of 13 in the state, was supposed to open July 1, Carmen Arlt, director of addiction services said. But the group wanted to put in more safety features, such as cameras and locks, to make the community and staff feel safe.
"We were slowed down by the process of renovation," Arlt said.
The clinic, which is attached to the main Porter-Starke Services building at 701 Wall St. in Valparaiso, has everything in place except the actual methadone.
A camera hovers over the entrance, as do several others in the lobby. Patients coming to get a prescription of methadone must first sign in at a front window.
They then move to another window, walled off from the lobby, to take their dosage.
The clients must sign electronically and then swallow the liquid in front of the registered nurse giving the dose, nurse staff member Don Sison said.
"Sometimes we engage in conversation after they have taken it to make sure they have swallowed it," Sison said.
The conversation also allows the nurses to get a feel for how patients are doing.
The clinic includes several side rooms for physicals, mandatory drug tests and interviews. Anyone who wants to become, and remain, a patient must prove they have tried other measures and that they are making improvements in their lives, Arlt said.
As for the dispensary, the room is made of steel walls, the door has a double lock, along with motion detectors.
Anyone entering the room has to have a nursing certificate posted on a board inside. The methadone supplies are kept in a special safe.
Arlt said the clinic has passed all levels of state and federal regulations.
"We're actually more safe over here than a bank," she said.
As soon as the federal government gives official certification, the clinic can be open within a few days.
That could happen anywhere from days to a few weeks from now, she said.
Arlt said she expects to see a heavy volume of patients soon.
The state government has warned her that about 60 percent of the patients who go to the clinics in Gary are from Porter County and will likely go to Porter-Starke once its clinic opens.
Press Release
Contact Person:
Joycelyn Woods, Executive Director
nama.president@Verizon.net
1.212.595.6262
For Release
November 12, 2007
Located in Valparaiso the clinic is attached to the main Porter-Starke Services building has everything in place except the actual methadone according to advocate and director Carmen Arlt. The clinic has been inspected by state and federal officials and is now waiting for the federal certificate. Once the certificate is received the clinic could be open within days. According to Arlt they are expecting a large number of transfer patients from the Gary area since many of the patients that attend those clinics are from the area
Carmen Arlt is also director of NAMA’s Indiana Chapter The MAG and is one of the few patient advocates to be recognized with the prestigious Marie (Dole-Nyswander) Award.
About
Since its beginning over 40 years ago methadone maintenance has been the most effective treatment for narcotic addiction. In spite of its success, methadone maintenance is often disparaged as a "substitute drug" by those who ignore the positive benefits that it has clearly brought to society. Such attitudes negatively impact on methadone treatment in a variety of ways, but it is the methadone patients themselves who are particularly stigmatized and harmed. Patients are mistreated and misinformed and considered as social outcasts. They are victims of discrimination in health care, the job market, education, insurance and housing. The National Alliance of Methadone Advocates (NAMA) was organized as a formal mechanism for methadone patients to voice their own needs and to form a strong, unified public presence on their behalf. The primary objective of NAMA is to advocate for the patient in treatment by destigmatizing and empowering methadone patients. First and foremost, it can confront the negative stereotypes that impact on the self esteem and worth of many methadone patients with a powerful affirmation of pride and unity.
Website: http://www.methadone.org
Contact Persons:
Joycelyn Woods, Executive Director, ediretor@methadone.org
Roxanne Baker, President, president@methadone.org
Phone/FAX: 212.595.nama
See attached article from Post Tribune.
###
Attachment
Final touches on clinic
November 10, 2007
By Teresa Auch Post-Tribune staff writer
VALPARAISO -- The new methadone clinic at Porter-Starke Services is ready to open, just as soon as the federal government gives approval.
The clinic, one of 13 in the state, was supposed to open July 1, Carmen Arlt, director of addiction services said. But the group wanted to put in more safety features, such as cameras and locks, to make the community and staff feel safe.
"We were slowed down by the process of renovation," Arlt said.
The clinic, which is attached to the main Porter-Starke Services building at 701 Wall St. in Valparaiso, has everything in place except the actual methadone.
A camera hovers over the entrance, as do several others in the lobby. Patients coming to get a prescription of methadone must first sign in at a front window.
They then move to another window, walled off from the lobby, to take their dosage.
The clients must sign electronically and then swallow the liquid in front of the registered nurse giving the dose, nurse staff member Don Sison said.
"Sometimes we engage in conversation after they have taken it to make sure they have swallowed it," Sison said.
The conversation also allows the nurses to get a feel for how patients are doing.
The clinic includes several side rooms for physicals, mandatory drug tests and interviews. Anyone who wants to become, and remain, a patient must prove they have tried other measures and that they are making improvements in their lives, Arlt said.
As for the dispensary, the room is made of steel walls, the door has a double lock, along with motion detectors.
Anyone entering the room has to have a nursing certificate posted on a board inside. The methadone supplies are kept in a special safe.
Arlt said the clinic has passed all levels of state and federal regulations.
"We're actually more safe over here than a bank," she said.
As soon as the federal government gives official certification, the clinic can be open within a few days.
That could happen anywhere from days to a few weeks from now, she said.
Arlt said she expects to see a heavy volume of patients soon.
The state government has warned her that about 60 percent of the patients who go to the clinics in Gary are from Porter County and will likely go to Porter-Starke once its clinic opens.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Leaders of NAMA’s Swedish Affiliate Svenska Brukarforeningen (SBF) Report to Police for Handing Out Clean Needles
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact Person: Joycelyn Woods, President
nama.president@Verizon.net
1.212.595.nama
For Release
May 17, 2007
On May 4 SBF’s President, Berne Stålenkrantz and the Stockhom Director, Johan Stenbäck presented themselves to the Norrmalm Police Station in Stockholm for handing out clean needles to drug users.
The purpose of the action was to get an official assessment of the their crime and to bring to the public the fact that Sweden does not allow syringes to be sold in pharmacies as is done is all other countries in the European Union (EU). SBF is also considering reporting Sweden to the European Union for its failure to comply with EU rules surrounding the common market.
In southern Sweden needle exchange programs have been keeping the spread of HCV nd HIV under control for the past 20 years. County and Town Councils have been allowed to establish needle exchange programmes if they so wish. However in Stockholm no such programs have been established.
According to Stålenkrantz if the penalty is mild they will continue with what they are doing. However after SBF publicized that they were providing drug users with clean needles the organization suddenly found its financing from Stockholm City Council under threat.
Stålenkrantz also reported that a colleague suffering from a Hepatitis C was planning to report the city's social services department to the police because he has contracted a deadly illness after being refused clean syringes. He will also state that he was a victim of SBF’s having received clean syringes from the organization.
Needle exchange programs have been used worldwide for the past twenty years and provides a way for drug users to avoid the risks of drug use as well as a way to access support services including treatment.
"We are handing out syringes for purely humanitarian reasons. And we are forced to do so since society is not providing this type of healthcare," said Stålenkrantz.
Press Release
Contact Person: Joycelyn Woods, President
nama.president@Verizon.net
1.212.595.nama
For Release
May 17, 2007
On May 4 SBF’s President, Berne Stålenkrantz and the Stockhom Director, Johan Stenbäck presented themselves to the Norrmalm Police Station in Stockholm for handing out clean needles to drug users.
The purpose of the action was to get an official assessment of the their crime and to bring to the public the fact that Sweden does not allow syringes to be sold in pharmacies as is done is all other countries in the European Union (EU). SBF is also considering reporting Sweden to the European Union for its failure to comply with EU rules surrounding the common market.
In southern Sweden needle exchange programs have been keeping the spread of HCV nd HIV under control for the past 20 years. County and Town Councils have been allowed to establish needle exchange programmes if they so wish. However in Stockholm no such programs have been established.
According to Stålenkrantz if the penalty is mild they will continue with what they are doing. However after SBF publicized that they were providing drug users with clean needles the organization suddenly found its financing from Stockholm City Council under threat.
Stålenkrantz also reported that a colleague suffering from a Hepatitis C was planning to report the city's social services department to the police because he has contracted a deadly illness after being refused clean syringes. He will also state that he was a victim of SBF’s having received clean syringes from the organization.
Needle exchange programs have been used worldwide for the past twenty years and provides a way for drug users to avoid the risks of drug use as well as a way to access support services including treatment.
"We are handing out syringes for purely humanitarian reasons. And we are forced to do so since society is not providing this type of healthcare," said Stålenkrantz.
Friday, May 04, 2007
NAMA Calls for An End To Using The Term Substitution Treatment Asking That Governments and Their Agencies and Organizations End Its’ Use
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact:
Joycelyn Woods MA-CMA (212) 595-NAMA/6262
For Release:
May 4, 2007
The National Alliance of Methadone Advocates, our international affiliates and chapters in the United States call on all governments, governmental agencies and international organizations to end the use of “Substitution Treatment” when referring to medication assisted treatment (MAT) for opiate addiction.
The term “Substitution Treatment” infers that any medication used in the treatment of opiate dependence is a substitute. No other medication is referred to in this manner creating significant misunderstandings towards the medication and especially the patients. The use of “Substitution Treatment” stigmatizes patients receiving treatment for the opiate dependence, promotes ignorance and pollutes the development and growth of this life saving medication for those needing help for their opiate dependence.
Governments have rejected buprenorphine and particularly methadone because they it is viewed as merely a substitute for heroin or other illicit drugs. Officials in rejecting these medications have expressed the belief that their citizens should have the right to an effective treatment. Thus hundreds of thousands of opiate dependent individuals “are being denied” the most effective treatment because “Substitution Treatment” is misleading and confusing.
In the United States the term Substitute and Substitution Treatment is only used to denigrate both methadone and buprenorphine treatments. Calling these medications a substitute has been used to hurt Patients by denying them opportunities and other benefits that they deserve and have worked for. Thus, in the United States only those against methadone and buprenorphine call them a Substitute.
At Bratislava in 2006 Dr. Icro Maremmani, the President of Europad called for his European colleagues to end the use of “Substitution Treatment. He asked his colleagues to follow the philosophy and principles of Drs. Dole and Nyswander who believed that opioid dependence and addiction was a medical condition and conceptualized the drug dependent person as a person with a brain metabolic disorder.
The last years of Dr. Dole’s life were spent working to resolve the stigma and prejudice that affects patients in medication assisted treatment. Dr. Dole was acutely aware of the stigma that terms like “Substitution Treatment” create towards patients. He always spoke out against any inference that medication assisted treatment was a substitute. In his experience, methadone and more recently buprenorphine were medications that stabilize the endogenous opioid system damaged by narcotics.
We, at the National Alliance of Methadone Advocates believe that the use of Substitute or Substitution Treatment denigrates this treatment. And that by denigrating this treatment patients receiving medication assisted treatment are injured.
As patients we reserve the right to define ourselves and our treatment. It is therefore the spirit of our own self identity we ask governments and their agencies, organizations and professionals to cease using “Substitution Treatment. Methadone and buprenorphine are medical treatments and should be defined as “Medication Assisted Treatment” or “Opiate Agonist Therapy”.
It is therefore in the spirit of our own self identity we ask governments and their agencies, organizations and professionals to cease using “Substitution Treatment. Methadone and buprenorphine are "medical treatments" and should be defined as such. However if you must put a name to addiction treatment then we suggest “Medication Assisted Treatment” or “Opiate Agonist Therapy”.
Press Release
Contact:
Joycelyn Woods MA-CMA (212) 595-NAMA/6262
For Release:
May 4, 2007
The National Alliance of Methadone Advocates, our international affiliates and chapters in the United States call on all governments, governmental agencies and international organizations to end the use of “Substitution Treatment” when referring to medication assisted treatment (MAT) for opiate addiction.
The term “Substitution Treatment” infers that any medication used in the treatment of opiate dependence is a substitute. No other medication is referred to in this manner creating significant misunderstandings towards the medication and especially the patients. The use of “Substitution Treatment” stigmatizes patients receiving treatment for the opiate dependence, promotes ignorance and pollutes the development and growth of this life saving medication for those needing help for their opiate dependence.
Governments have rejected buprenorphine and particularly methadone because they it is viewed as merely a substitute for heroin or other illicit drugs. Officials in rejecting these medications have expressed the belief that their citizens should have the right to an effective treatment. Thus hundreds of thousands of opiate dependent individuals “are being denied” the most effective treatment because “Substitution Treatment” is misleading and confusing.
In the United States the term Substitute and Substitution Treatment is only used to denigrate both methadone and buprenorphine treatments. Calling these medications a substitute has been used to hurt Patients by denying them opportunities and other benefits that they deserve and have worked for. Thus, in the United States only those against methadone and buprenorphine call them a Substitute.
At Bratislava in 2006 Dr. Icro Maremmani, the President of Europad called for his European colleagues to end the use of “Substitution Treatment. He asked his colleagues to follow the philosophy and principles of Drs. Dole and Nyswander who believed that opioid dependence and addiction was a medical condition and conceptualized the drug dependent person as a person with a brain metabolic disorder.
The last years of Dr. Dole’s life were spent working to resolve the stigma and prejudice that affects patients in medication assisted treatment. Dr. Dole was acutely aware of the stigma that terms like “Substitution Treatment” create towards patients. He always spoke out against any inference that medication assisted treatment was a substitute. In his experience, methadone and more recently buprenorphine were medications that stabilize the endogenous opioid system damaged by narcotics.
We, at the National Alliance of Methadone Advocates believe that the use of Substitute or Substitution Treatment denigrates this treatment. And that by denigrating this treatment patients receiving medication assisted treatment are injured.
As patients we reserve the right to define ourselves and our treatment. It is therefore the spirit of our own self identity we ask governments and their agencies, organizations and professionals to cease using “Substitution Treatment. Methadone and buprenorphine are medical treatments and should be defined as “Medication Assisted Treatment” or “Opiate Agonist Therapy”.
It is therefore in the spirit of our own self identity we ask governments and their agencies, organizations and professionals to cease using “Substitution Treatment. Methadone and buprenorphine are "medical treatments" and should be defined as such. However if you must put a name to addiction treatment then we suggest “Medication Assisted Treatment” or “Opiate Agonist Therapy”.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Méta d'âme Announces New Housing Initiative for Methadone Patients in Montreal
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact Persons:
Joycelyn Woods, President
nama.president@Verizon.net
1.212.595.nama
Guy Pierre Levesque, Méta d'âme
guypierrelevesque@yahoo.com
For Release:
April 12, 2007
Méta d'âme NAMA’s affiliate in Montreal has announced a new housing project that will provide housing and peer services to methadone patients. Construction of a new building will begin in August with the building of 22 units that consisting of studio and 1-bedroom apartments. The building will have a green roof and community hall for meetings. Meta d'âme will own and manage the project with peer workers in collaboration with clinic referrals. Guy Pierre Lévesque spokesperson for Méta d'âme reports that the organization will also occupy half of the ground floor starting June 2008.
The housing project is named Promethéus (Promethe) from the Greek god. A favorite of Zeus Promethe was punisheed for disobedience because he stole fire from the gods and gave it to mortals for their use. This was the beginning of enlightenment for man. An appropriate name for the project Promethean refers to events or people of great creativity, intellect and boldness.
Also in the planning is a French International Methadone Conference and other medicated assisted treatment (MAT) for opiate dependency. Translations will be made available in English. Méta d'âme will be involved in the planning and also include peer-working at the conference. In addition to the conference Méta d'âme is involved in the development of a Canadian Methadone Association.
“It is possible to make things happened if we believe in what we do,” says Lévesque. Therefore it appears that the impetus of Méta d'âme is creating some important advances in Canada.
Press Release
Contact Persons:
Joycelyn Woods, President
nama.president@Verizon.net
1.212.595.nama
Guy Pierre Levesque, Méta d'âme
guypierrelevesque@yahoo.com
For Release:
April 12, 2007
Méta d'âme NAMA’s affiliate in Montreal has announced a new housing project that will provide housing and peer services to methadone patients. Construction of a new building will begin in August with the building of 22 units that consisting of studio and 1-bedroom apartments. The building will have a green roof and community hall for meetings. Meta d'âme will own and manage the project with peer workers in collaboration with clinic referrals. Guy Pierre Lévesque spokesperson for Méta d'âme reports that the organization will also occupy half of the ground floor starting June 2008.
The housing project is named Promethéus (Promethe) from the Greek god. A favorite of Zeus Promethe was punisheed for disobedience because he stole fire from the gods and gave it to mortals for their use. This was the beginning of enlightenment for man. An appropriate name for the project Promethean refers to events or people of great creativity, intellect and boldness.
Also in the planning is a French International Methadone Conference and other medicated assisted treatment (MAT) for opiate dependency. Translations will be made available in English. Méta d'âme will be involved in the planning and also include peer-working at the conference. In addition to the conference Méta d'âme is involved in the development of a Canadian Methadone Association.
“It is possible to make things happened if we believe in what we do,” says Lévesque. Therefore it appears that the impetus of Méta d'âme is creating some important advances in Canada.
Monday, April 09, 2007
MOUNT SINAI TO ABANDON AFRICAN-AMERICAN AND HISPANIC PATIENTS OF EAST HARLEM
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact:
Joycelyn Woods MA-CMA (212) 595-NAMA/6262
For Release:
April 9, 2007
The Mount Sinai Hospital is planning to close the Narcotic Rehabilitation Center (NRC) a program with an international reputation for excellence in treating opiate addiction. After 37 years of providing rehabilitation services to Upper East Side residents afflicted with opiate addiction, Mount Sinai has determined that there is no longer any room for the program.
Even after accepting funds for the renovation of the facility from the New York State Office of Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) the hospital appears to be moving to quickly close NRC. In NRC’s place Mount Sinai is planning a multi-million dollar project that will include luxury high-rise apartments. It is difficult to comprehend Mount Sinai’s decision to eliminate a program that has been important to the local neighborhood. The situation could be easily averted since NRC can be easily relocated to the selected site that is renovated, licensed and ready to open. Therefore it is difficult to understand why Mt. Sinai can not find a way to keep these valuable services.
Press Release
Contact:
Joycelyn Woods MA-CMA (212) 595-NAMA/6262
For Release:
April 9, 2007
The Mount Sinai Hospital is planning to close the Narcotic Rehabilitation Center (NRC) a program with an international reputation for excellence in treating opiate addiction. After 37 years of providing rehabilitation services to Upper East Side residents afflicted with opiate addiction, Mount Sinai has determined that there is no longer any room for the program.
Even after accepting funds for the renovation of the facility from the New York State Office of Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) the hospital appears to be moving to quickly close NRC. In NRC’s place Mount Sinai is planning a multi-million dollar project that will include luxury high-rise apartments. It is difficult to comprehend Mount Sinai’s decision to eliminate a program that has been important to the local neighborhood. The situation could be easily averted since NRC can be easily relocated to the selected site that is renovated, licensed and ready to open. Therefore it is difficult to understand why Mt. Sinai can not find a way to keep these valuable services.
Has Mount Sinai Forgotten it’s Mission?
The National Alliance of Methadone Advocates (NAMA) has already begun to hear from fearful patients and their concerns about having to go to another program that they do not know. Certainly, patients will have to travel into other neighborhoods for treatment, change their schedules and develop new relationships with program staff. This creates stress for patients and their families. And now with fewer options to treatment in East Harlem any increases in drug use could easily develop into a public health crisis.
NRC that serves 700 patients has a international reputation for providing quality medicated assisted treatment and is known for having exceptional services. The programs that will have to take on the responsibility of accepting these patients do not have the services that NRC has developed over the years. Programs in Northern Manhattan are already operating close to capacity and certainly do not have room for large numbers of patients creating a carry over effect. If the 7 closest programs accepted 100 patients each the burden on them would be tremendous. Program staff already over worked and stressed will not be able to provide the level of care that they were providing. Therefore a large number of patients from an area with pockets of destitution will not be able to obtain the services that they need to change their lives. In addition to the 700 patients from NRC at least another 3500 patients will be affected by the closing of NRC.
The Harlem area and nearby neighborhoods will be impacted from the effects of the closing of NRC. The improvements that the Harlem area has experienced in the last decade will begin to deteriorate. Individuals seeking help for their opiate dependence will be turned away from local programs, a rarity in New York City. Crime in East Harlem will undoubtedly increase and spill into neighboring communities. The standard of living will be reduced for all as hospitals admissions increase and other public health indicators increase (i.e. HIV, overdose deaths, TB). Therefore the impact of NRC closing on the community and on the city is not insignificant.
NAMA urges Mount Sinai to re-think their decision and to continue with the decision to utilize the site that has been selected and is ready for the program to move into. Proceeding with the current decision to close NRC is an indication that the needs of community are not important in comparison to the new luxury high rise residents. NAMA believes that the patients of NRC and the East Harlem community deserve more from Mount Sinai and will make every effort to insure that the patients of NRC and the community are not forgotten. East Harlem is a vibrant community and the people deserve the right to have access to medicated assisted treatment within their community.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
STOP METHADONE IGNORANCE
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact Person: Joycelyn Woods, President
For Release:
March 10, 2007
It is not uncommon for individuals with a long history of illicit opiate use to remain in methadone treatment as a long term patient. Many often say that without methadone treatment they would probably be dead. Other forms of treatment were not effective and they had come to believe that they would die an "addict". Numerous studies have demonstrated that the majority of persons who leave methadone treatment revert to illicit heroin or other opioid use in relatively short time though of course there are exceptions.
NIDA and NIH considers "addiction" as a chronic relapsing brain disorder. A full text article, The Neurobiology of Addictive Behaviors and its Relationship to Methadone Maintenance by Stimmel and Kreek is available from, http://www.mssm.edu/msjournal/67/page375_380.pdf
You get an excellent idea of the benefits of methadone maintenance by visiting a petition web site that was recently established by NAMA to counter anti-methadone groups trying to restrict this valuable therapy. Read the patient reports on the petition and you will get a significant understanding of the benefits to the patients of this form of therapy.
However recently there have been an increase in methadone overdose deaths attributed to an increase in prescribing methadone for pain medication. Also methadone has been in the media recently adding to the fervor and sensationalism.
The change in regulations created a more realistic situation for both programs and patients seeking recovery. However recently several sensational websites are promoting stricter regulations on methadone treatment in an effort to end the increase overdose deaths. These measures will be ineffective as most of the deaths are due to a number of factors including mishandling of medication. In an effort to protect our life saving treatment and to make methadone safer for pain management NAMA recommends education rather than restrictions.
We are also asking patients and their families to sign a petition "Methadone Patients Against Hysteria and Further Restrictions". The petition in brief, reads as follows:
We are Methadone Patients, Providers, Families and Friends AGAINST the Hysteria which is calling for Further Restrictions on the Prescribing of Methadone."
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/360731625
Press Release
Contact Person: Joycelyn Woods, President
For Release:
March 10, 2007
It is not uncommon for individuals with a long history of illicit opiate use to remain in methadone treatment as a long term patient. Many often say that without methadone treatment they would probably be dead. Other forms of treatment were not effective and they had come to believe that they would die an "addict". Numerous studies have demonstrated that the majority of persons who leave methadone treatment revert to illicit heroin or other opioid use in relatively short time though of course there are exceptions.
NIDA and NIH considers "addiction" as a chronic relapsing brain disorder. A full text article, The Neurobiology of Addictive Behaviors and its Relationship to Methadone Maintenance by Stimmel and Kreek is available from, http://www.mssm.edu/msjournal/67/page375_380.pdf
You get an excellent idea of the benefits of methadone maintenance by visiting a petition web site that was recently established by NAMA to counter anti-methadone groups trying to restrict this valuable therapy. Read the patient reports on the petition and you will get a significant understanding of the benefits to the patients of this form of therapy.
However recently there have been an increase in methadone overdose deaths attributed to an increase in prescribing methadone for pain medication. Also methadone has been in the media recently adding to the fervor and sensationalism.
The change in regulations created a more realistic situation for both programs and patients seeking recovery. However recently several sensational websites are promoting stricter regulations on methadone treatment in an effort to end the increase overdose deaths. These measures will be ineffective as most of the deaths are due to a number of factors including mishandling of medication. In an effort to protect our life saving treatment and to make methadone safer for pain management NAMA recommends education rather than restrictions.
We are also asking patients and their families to sign a petition "Methadone Patients Against Hysteria and Further Restrictions". The petition in brief, reads as follows:
We are Methadone Patients, Providers, Families and Friends AGAINST the Hysteria which is calling for Further Restrictions on the Prescribing of Methadone."
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/360731625
Monday, March 05, 2007
NAMA Announces NAMA NorCal's House Party Rokki's Education Party for HBO's Addition Special
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact(s):
Rokki Baker, CMA, NAMA Vice President and NAMA NorCal Director
bluelady16.1@netzero.net
Joycelyn Woods, President
nama.president@Verizon.net
For Release:
March 5, 2007
All across the country people are coming together to watch and discuss the new HBO series, ADDICTION. Americans will be coming together to discuss what needs o happen in their communities to make alcohol, drug treatment and recovery support available and show the power of long-term recovery. For to long patients in medicated assisted treatment (MAT) have not thought of themselves as being in recovery and it is time to change. Join NAMA NorCal for Rokki's Education to discuss MAT and recovery and ways to introduce it to the MAT community. This is our opportunity to be counted.
What is HBO's ADDICTION Project
The documentary, ADDICTION, examines recent advancements in research and effective new treatments. It demonstrates that treatment and recovery is possible. And it is positive to MAT by emphasizing that addiction is a brain disease.
ADDICTION is a series of four programs that premieres from Thursday, March 15, to Sunday, March 18. In participating cable systems it will be free for the weekend.
NAMA NorCal will host an ADDICTION ACTION House Party.
When: 03/16/07 04:00 PM
Where: NAMA-NorCal
3400 Portola Drive #A2
Santa Cruz, California
RSVP: Guestlist
Contact Organizer: Roxanne Baker
Click here for a complete series broadcast schedule.
http://www.addictionaction.org/watch/broadcast.html
Visit Addiction Action.
http://www.addictionaction.org/
Visit NAMA website.
http://www.methadone.org/
Together, we can make a difference.
Press Release
Contact(s):
Rokki Baker, CMA, NAMA Vice President and NAMA NorCal Director
bluelady16.1@netzero.net
Joycelyn Woods, President
nama.president@Verizon.net
For Release:
March 5, 2007
All across the country people are coming together to watch and discuss the new HBO series, ADDICTION. Americans will be coming together to discuss what needs o happen in their communities to make alcohol, drug treatment and recovery support available and show the power of long-term recovery. For to long patients in medicated assisted treatment (MAT) have not thought of themselves as being in recovery and it is time to change. Join NAMA NorCal for Rokki's Education to discuss MAT and recovery and ways to introduce it to the MAT community. This is our opportunity to be counted.
The documentary, ADDICTION, examines recent advancements in research and effective new treatments. It demonstrates that treatment and recovery is possible. And it is positive to MAT by emphasizing that addiction is a brain disease.
ADDICTION is a series of four programs that premieres from Thursday, March 15, to Sunday, March 18. In participating cable systems it will be free for the weekend.
NAMA NorCal will host an ADDICTION ACTION House Party.
When: 03/16/07 04:00 PM
Where: NAMA-NorCal
3400 Portola Drive #A2
Santa Cruz, California
RSVP: Guestlist
Contact Organizer: Roxanne Baker
Click here for a complete series broadcast schedule.
http://www.addictionaction.org/watch/broadcast.html
Visit Addiction Action.
http://www.addictionaction.org/
Visit NAMA website.
http://www.methadone.org/
Together, we can make a difference.
Saturday, February 03, 2007
New Jersey Advocates Announces New State Access Initiative
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact(s):
Claude Hopkins, CMA-RMA (732) 678-5172
NJadvocate@Comcast.net
Joycelyn Woods MA-CMA (212) 595-NAMA/6262
For Release:
February 3, 2007
NAMA's New Jersey Chapter Announces
New State Access Initiative
New Jersey Advocates NAMA's official chapter for the state of New Jersey announces a new state access initiative. The New Jersey Access Initiative (NJAI) is a program of the Division of Addiction Services and administered by the Center for Family Services, Inc..
The program was created to "enhance" traditional substance abuse treatment to New Jersey residents addicted to opiates. NJAI provides funding for assessments, inpatient detoxification, opiate drug treatment utilizing a modality of medicated assisted treatment (i.e. methadone and buprenorphine), drug-free treatment and Recovery Mentoring services.
Eligible MAT patients actively engaged in treatment will be given a choice of a Certified Recovery Mentor who will enhance their care during treatment and facilitate their transition from treatment to long-term recovery and a successful life in the community. The Recovery Mentor Associates will assist with brokering necessary services and removing the common barriers to recovery.
This program is presently accepting all eligible applicants who is suffering from an addiction to opiates. At the present anyone who is attempting to get onto a methadone program but is having difficulty due to a lack of funding or anyone who is presently on a methadone program but is in the process of loosing their status as a patient due to not having the funds to continue would most likely be eligible for a voucher to pay for treatment. This voucher would give them access to treatment in a methadone treatment facility for 6 mos and any needed covered services along with a Recovery Mentor.
Anyone interested in this program can contact the New Jersey Addiction Hotline at 1-800-238-2333, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and ask to be placed on the access initiative program.
Not all New Jersey MTPs have asked to be part of the program however, as NJAI expands more will become providers for this initiative. There are several drug-free providers throughout the state. You will receive a list of all eligible providers once you receive your voucher number over the phone. You can then take your number to one of the approved providers to receive your assessment which starts the treatment process.
Anyone needing assistance can contact Claude Hopkins at the phone number or email below.
Phone: (732) 678-5172
Email: NJadvocate@Comcast.net
Press Release
Contact(s):
Claude Hopkins, CMA-RMA (732) 678-5172
NJadvocate@Comcast.net
Joycelyn Woods MA-CMA (212) 595-NAMA/6262
For Release:
February 3, 2007
NAMA's New Jersey Chapter Announces
New State Access Initiative
New Jersey Advocates NAMA's official chapter for the state of New Jersey announces a new state access initiative. The New Jersey Access Initiative (NJAI) is a program of the Division of Addiction Services and administered by the Center for Family Services, Inc..
The program was created to "enhance" traditional substance abuse treatment to New Jersey residents addicted to opiates. NJAI provides funding for assessments, inpatient detoxification, opiate drug treatment utilizing a modality of medicated assisted treatment (i.e. methadone and buprenorphine), drug-free treatment and Recovery Mentoring services.
Eligible MAT patients actively engaged in treatment will be given a choice of a Certified Recovery Mentor who will enhance their care during treatment and facilitate their transition from treatment to long-term recovery and a successful life in the community. The Recovery Mentor Associates will assist with brokering necessary services and removing the common barriers to recovery.
This program is presently accepting all eligible applicants who is suffering from an addiction to opiates. At the present anyone who is attempting to get onto a methadone program but is having difficulty due to a lack of funding or anyone who is presently on a methadone program but is in the process of loosing their status as a patient due to not having the funds to continue would most likely be eligible for a voucher to pay for treatment. This voucher would give them access to treatment in a methadone treatment facility for 6 mos and any needed covered services along with a Recovery Mentor.
Anyone interested in this program can contact the New Jersey Addiction Hotline at 1-800-238-2333, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and ask to be placed on the access initiative program.
Not all New Jersey MTPs have asked to be part of the program however, as NJAI expands more will become providers for this initiative. There are several drug-free providers throughout the state. You will receive a list of all eligible providers once you receive your voucher number over the phone. You can then take your number to one of the approved providers to receive your assessment which starts the treatment process.
Anyone needing assistance can contact Claude Hopkins at the phone number or email below.
Phone: (732) 678-5172
Email: NJadvocate@Comcast.net
Friday, December 29, 2006
Call for Nominations of the Richard Lane Patient Advocacy Award
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact(s):
Joycelyn Woods MA-CMA (212) 595-NAMA/6262
Fred Christie AFIRM (516) 897-1330
Chris Kelly ARM (202) 246-6850
For Release:
December 29, 2006
Call for Nominations of the
The National Alliance of Methadone Advocates (NAMA) in collaboration with Advocates for the Integration of Methadone and Recovery (AFIRM) and Advocates for Recovery with Medication (ARM) is seeking Nominations for the Richard Lane Patient Advocacy Award to be presented by the American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD) at the 2007 National Conference.
The award will be presented during the Conference Banquet to be held in San Diego (October 20-24, 2007). The recipient will receive roundtrip Coach Class airfare to the conference, two (2) nights in the hotel and full conference registration.
Richard Land was a long-term heroin user who, upon release from prison in 1967, was instrumental in establishing one of the Nation’s first methadone treatment programs. In 1974, he became the Executive Director of Man Alive (Baltimore) and later served as Vice President of the American Methadone Treatment Association and as Vice Chairman of the Governor’s Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse in Maryland. Mr. Lane was a passionate advocate for methadone treatment and, by disclosing his own treatment experiences, provided inspiration to patients and colleagues alike. This award was established in 1995 and recognizes extraordinary achievements in patient advocacy.
The following criteria should be applied in making the selection:
Only one (1) nominee can be submitted to the AATOD Conference Awards Committee. There may be a number of nominees, who will be fielded by The Committee in the methadone patient advocacy movement, however, The Committee will be responsible for submitting only one (1) “consensus” nominee to receive this honor.
The nominee must have been involved in the field of methadone advocacy for a period of five (5) years.
The nominee must have been actively engaged in methadone advocacy for a period of five (5) years.
The nominee must have made meaningful and consistent contributions, which have had a significant impact on opioid treatment within a state or region of the United States.
The Committee will be responsible for completing the nomination form and retaining letters of support describing the nominee’s achievements, which are required before any final nomination can be submitted to the AATOD Awards Committee.
All submissions should include the completed Richard Land Patient Advocacy Award Nomination Form that is included.
Please distribute to all interested persons.
Press Release
Contact(s):
Joycelyn Woods MA-CMA (212) 595-NAMA/6262
Fred Christie AFIRM (516) 897-1330
Chris Kelly ARM (202) 246-6850
For Release:
December 29, 2006
Call for Nominations of the
Richard Lane Patient Advocacy Award
The National Alliance of Methadone Advocates (NAMA) in collaboration with Advocates for the Integration of Methadone and Recovery (AFIRM) and Advocates for Recovery with Medication (ARM) is seeking Nominations for the Richard Lane Patient Advocacy Award to be presented by the American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD) at the 2007 National Conference.
The award will be presented during the Conference Banquet to be held in San Diego (October 20-24, 2007). The recipient will receive roundtrip Coach Class airfare to the conference, two (2) nights in the hotel and full conference registration.
Richard Land was a long-term heroin user who, upon release from prison in 1967, was instrumental in establishing one of the Nation’s first methadone treatment programs. In 1974, he became the Executive Director of Man Alive (Baltimore) and later served as Vice President of the American Methadone Treatment Association and as Vice Chairman of the Governor’s Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse in Maryland. Mr. Lane was a passionate advocate for methadone treatment and, by disclosing his own treatment experiences, provided inspiration to patients and colleagues alike. This award was established in 1995 and recognizes extraordinary achievements in patient advocacy.
The following criteria should be applied in making the selection:
Only one (1) nominee can be submitted to the AATOD Conference Awards Committee. There may be a number of nominees, who will be fielded by The Committee in the methadone patient advocacy movement, however, The Committee will be responsible for submitting only one (1) “consensus” nominee to receive this honor.
The nominee must have been involved in the field of methadone advocacy for a period of five (5) years.
The nominee must have been actively engaged in methadone advocacy for a period of five (5) years.
The nominee must have made meaningful and consistent contributions, which have had a significant impact on opioid treatment within a state or region of the United States.
The Committee will be responsible for completing the nomination form and retaining letters of support describing the nominee’s achievements, which are required before any final nomination can be submitted to the AATOD Awards Committee.
All submissions should include the completed Richard Land Patient Advocacy Award Nomination Form that is included.
Please distribute to all interested persons.
Download Press Release
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
NAMA is Proud to Announce the World Famous CODAC All-Stars Holiday Music Jam at the Catfish Cafe
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Contact Person: Joycelyn Woods, President
nama.president@Verizon.net
212.595.nama
For Release:
December 6, 2006
NAMA IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE
THE WORLD FAMOUS CODAC ALL-STARS
Press Release
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Contact Person: Joycelyn Woods, President
nama.president@Verizon.net
212.595.nama
For Release:
December 6, 2006
NAMA IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE
THE WORLD FAMOUS CODAC ALL-STARS
HOLIDAY MUSIC JAM AT THE CATFISH CAFE
Saturday, December 9, 2006
Providence, RI
The CODAC All-Stars and Friends bring you a night of music, stories and holiday favorites.
When
Saturday December 9th at 7 PM
Come early for the Jam Session 2-6 PM
Where
The Catfish Cafe at The Mediator
50 Rounds Avenue, Providence RI
Admission
Donation
Or A New Unwrapped Present for Kids 1-16 Years
Refreshments Available
Saturday December 9th at 7 PM
Come early for the Jam Session 2-6 PM
Where
The Catfish Cafe at The Mediator
50 Rounds Avenue, Providence RI
Admission
Donation
Or A New Unwrapped Present for Kids 1-16 Years
Refreshments Available
The Mediator is easy to find - just off Narragansett Avenue (near Reservoir)
or from Elmwood and Roger Williams Avenue
Call 401-263-7232 for Directions
For More Information
WWW.CATFISHCAFE.INFO
OPEN JAM SESSION FROM 2-6PM
James Gillen "Catfish Jim" is the manager of the CODAC All-Stars and founder of Tales from a Small Planet a project in which Gillen uses his passion for storytelling, music and audience participation. Gillen also uses his storytelling abilities to give presentations on substance abuse and tobacco prevention in schools and other facilities. Additionally, an experiment using musical therapy to help people recovering from addictions tap into the creative energy within has blossomed into an ever-expanding group of musicians, singers and drummers. They are now known as the World-Famous CODAC All-Stars. This group has appeared as part of the Catfish Café, which included a performance that brought down the house last year at the City of Providence’s New Year’s Eve Bright Night event.
Jim Gillen is a director of NAMA's Rhode Island chapter MARC, a Licensed Chemical Dependency Professional (LCDP) and Certified Criminal Justice Professional (CCJP) in the state of Rhode Island.
The state of Rhode Island's Division of Substance Abuse presented Jim with the 2003 Counselor of the Year Award. In March of 2006 Jim was named recipient of the prestigious Jefferson Award for RI for outstanding service to the community.
For booking information for “Tales From a Small Planet” or the “CODAC All Stars”, e-mail: planetcatfish@cox.net
or from Elmwood and Roger Williams Avenue
Call 401-263-7232 for Directions
For More Information
WWW.CATFISHCAFE.INFO
OPEN JAM SESSION FROM 2-6PM
James Gillen "Catfish Jim" is the manager of the CODAC All-Stars and founder of Tales from a Small Planet a project in which Gillen uses his passion for storytelling, music and audience participation. Gillen also uses his storytelling abilities to give presentations on substance abuse and tobacco prevention in schools and other facilities. Additionally, an experiment using musical therapy to help people recovering from addictions tap into the creative energy within has blossomed into an ever-expanding group of musicians, singers and drummers. They are now known as the World-Famous CODAC All-Stars. This group has appeared as part of the Catfish Café, which included a performance that brought down the house last year at the City of Providence’s New Year’s Eve Bright Night event.
Jim Gillen is a director of NAMA's Rhode Island chapter MARC, a Licensed Chemical Dependency Professional (LCDP) and Certified Criminal Justice Professional (CCJP) in the state of Rhode Island.
The state of Rhode Island's Division of Substance Abuse presented Jim with the 2003 Counselor of the Year Award. In March of 2006 Jim was named recipient of the prestigious Jefferson Award for RI for outstanding service to the community.
For booking information for “Tales From a Small Planet” or the “CODAC All Stars”, e-mail: planetcatfish@cox.net
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Rhode Island MAT Patients Celebrate Recovery
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates
Press Release
Contact Person: Joycelyn Woods, President
nama.president@Verizon.net
212.595.nama
For Release:
September 17, 2006
Rhode Island MAT Patients Celebrate Recovery
Press Release
Contact Person: Joycelyn Woods, President
nama.president@Verizon.net
212.595.nama
For Release:
September 17, 2006
Rhode Island MAT Patients Celebrate Recovery
Reported by Jim Gillen
MARCAP/NAMA
planetcatfish@cox.net
Yesterdays RI's celebration was beyond belief in a good way, from perfect weather to a HUGE crowd. Did I say a HUGE peaceful, joy filled crowd!!!!!
The role that medication assisted patients, staff from clinics, methadone advocates were a big,big part of this celebration. From the band (MAT patients) to the set up and break down crew - first ones in and last ones out.
We painted faces, distributed food, blew up over a hundred balloons, set up tents. I wanted to put the NAMA/MARCAP table next to NA but they came later - wouldn't that just be a hoot!!! Oh well, there is always next year!!!
This event to me is a great blueprint for success - mix it with a big general public event !!! Go figure!
We got our MARCAP first aid kits with phone number and methadone.org on it. If any one wants a few we could send some off.
Sharon Dembowski of NENAMA-MOM was great yesterday as usual and has photos of the event.
Keep the faith!!!
MARCAP/NAMA
planetcatfish@cox.net
Yesterdays RI's celebration was beyond belief in a good way, from perfect weather to a HUGE crowd. Did I say a HUGE peaceful, joy filled crowd!!!!!
The role that medication assisted patients, staff from clinics, methadone advocates were a big,big part of this celebration. From the band (MAT patients) to the set up and break down crew - first ones in and last ones out.
We painted faces, distributed food, blew up over a hundred balloons, set up tents. I wanted to put the NAMA/MARCAP table next to NA but they came later - wouldn't that just be a hoot!!! Oh well, there is always next year!!!
This event to me is a great blueprint for success - mix it with a big general public event !!! Go figure!
We got our MARCAP first aid kits with phone number and methadone.org on it. If any one wants a few we could send some off.
Sharon Dembowski of NENAMA-MOM was great yesterday as usual and has photos of the event.
Keep the faith!!!
Sunday, September 10, 2006
SAMHSA Awards $9.8 million for Peer to Peer Recovery Support Services
Date: Sept 6 , 2006
Media Contact: SAMHSA Press
Telephone: 240-276-2130
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced the award of seven Recovery Support Services grants totaling $9.8 million over four years. These grants to community-based organizations are designed to deliver and evaluate peer-to-peer recovery support services that help prevent relapse and promote sustained recovery from alcohol and drug use disorders.
"Peer recovery support services are expected to extend and enhance the treatment continuum," said Assistant Surgeon General Eric Broderick, D.D.S., M.P.H., SAMHSA's Acting Deputy Administrator. "These grants will help prevent relapse and maximize the opportunities to create a lifetime of recovery and wellness for self, family, and community. And, when individuals do experience relapse, recovery support services can help minimize the negative effects and if needed make sure there is an appropriate referral to treatment."
The seven awards in five states are funded up to $350,000 per year in total costs. Continuation of these awards is subject to the availability of funds as well as the progress achieved by the grantees. Total funding for year one is $2.4 million.
The Recovery Community Services Program grantees are as follows:
Arizona
Pima Prevention Partnership, Tucson -- $350,000 to recruit and train a 10-member core group of peer leaders in recovery, who will develop and implement the service infrastructure in four months. Recovery Services will be offered at the partnership's Learning Center and offer peer-led emotional, informational, instrumental and affiliation support services five afternoons/evenings per week, including Saturdays.
Tohono O'odham Nation, Sells -- $350,000 to implement a comprehensive peer-to-peer system to support individuals in recovery with a full range of recovery support services provided locally in the 11 districts that make up the federally recognized tribe, which has one of the highest rates of substance abuse among all populations in the United States .
Georgia
Recovery Consultants of Atlanta, Inc. -- $350,000 per year to provide peer-led support services that help sustain Atlanta's inner city addiction recovery community. The program will provide a recovery center offering more than 40 weekly 12-step, faith-based, health-specific (HIV and Hepatitis C, a liver disease), gender-specific and family-specific support groups.
New York
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates, Inc., New York City -- $349,998 per year to provide peer-to-peer recovery support services to patients of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine's Methadone Maintenance Treatment Programs. The overall goal is to create a climate for recovery among a population usually neglected by the larger recovery community.
Center for Community Alternatives, Inc., Syracuse -- $350,000 per year to develop a network of peer-lead community services for individuals in recovery and who also have past criminal justice involvement. The project will extend services into two additional cities, Rochester and Albany.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma CART System, Oklahoma City-- $350,000 per year to implement Sister to Sister, the states first model of peer-driven substance abuse recovery support services for women in Oklahoma County. This project expects to serve over 580 women in all stages of recovery and their children.
Texas
El Paso Alliance, Inc., El Paso-- $350,000 per year to enable the Recovery Alliance to improve existing services and support the development of new ones through a peer recruiting and retention system.
SAMHSA, is a public health agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. The agency is responsible for improving the accountability, capacity and effectiveness of the nation's substance abuse prevention, addictions, treatment, and mental health services delivery system.
Media Contact: SAMHSA Press
Telephone: 240-276-2130
SAMHSA Awards $9.8 million for Peer to Peer
Recovery Support Services
Recovery Support Services
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced the award of seven Recovery Support Services grants totaling $9.8 million over four years. These grants to community-based organizations are designed to deliver and evaluate peer-to-peer recovery support services that help prevent relapse and promote sustained recovery from alcohol and drug use disorders.
"Peer recovery support services are expected to extend and enhance the treatment continuum," said Assistant Surgeon General Eric Broderick, D.D.S., M.P.H., SAMHSA's Acting Deputy Administrator. "These grants will help prevent relapse and maximize the opportunities to create a lifetime of recovery and wellness for self, family, and community. And, when individuals do experience relapse, recovery support services can help minimize the negative effects and if needed make sure there is an appropriate referral to treatment."
The seven awards in five states are funded up to $350,000 per year in total costs. Continuation of these awards is subject to the availability of funds as well as the progress achieved by the grantees. Total funding for year one is $2.4 million.
The Recovery Community Services Program grantees are as follows:
Arizona
Pima Prevention Partnership, Tucson -- $350,000 to recruit and train a 10-member core group of peer leaders in recovery, who will develop and implement the service infrastructure in four months. Recovery Services will be offered at the partnership's Learning Center and offer peer-led emotional, informational, instrumental and affiliation support services five afternoons/evenings per week, including Saturdays.
Tohono O'odham Nation, Sells -- $350,000 to implement a comprehensive peer-to-peer system to support individuals in recovery with a full range of recovery support services provided locally in the 11 districts that make up the federally recognized tribe, which has one of the highest rates of substance abuse among all populations in the United States .
Georgia
Recovery Consultants of Atlanta, Inc. -- $350,000 per year to provide peer-led support services that help sustain Atlanta's inner city addiction recovery community. The program will provide a recovery center offering more than 40 weekly 12-step, faith-based, health-specific (HIV and Hepatitis C, a liver disease), gender-specific and family-specific support groups.
New York
National Alliance of Methadone Advocates, Inc., New York City -- $349,998 per year to provide peer-to-peer recovery support services to patients of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine's Methadone Maintenance Treatment Programs. The overall goal is to create a climate for recovery among a population usually neglected by the larger recovery community.
Center for Community Alternatives, Inc., Syracuse -- $350,000 per year to develop a network of peer-lead community services for individuals in recovery and who also have past criminal justice involvement. The project will extend services into two additional cities, Rochester and Albany.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma CART System, Oklahoma City-- $350,000 per year to implement Sister to Sister, the states first model of peer-driven substance abuse recovery support services for women in Oklahoma County. This project expects to serve over 580 women in all stages of recovery and their children.
Texas
El Paso Alliance, Inc., El Paso-- $350,000 per year to enable the Recovery Alliance to improve existing services and support the development of new ones through a peer recruiting and retention system.
SAMHSA, is a public health agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. The agency is responsible for improving the accountability, capacity and effectiveness of the nation's substance abuse prevention, addictions, treatment, and mental health services delivery system.
SAMHSA is An Agency of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Service
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