Federal Bupe Law Cheered

A new federal law that removes the 30-patient limit on buprenorphine treatment for group medical practices is winning raves from people with addictions and their care providers.

"I've been a [heroin] user for 20 years, and it's the only thing that's helped," said Elizabeth Fabiano, 38. "I don't know what it does to you, but you don't even think of [heroin] when you're on it. I've been on a waiting list since May. I can't wait to take it."

The new law should make it easier for hospitals and other group medical providers to provide buprenorphine -- an anti-opiate medication offered in pill form as an alternative to methadone -- and for addicts to get the drug.

The law should have an immediate, positive impact at programs like Harvard Vanguard. "We actually have four certified physicians, so the practical effect of this is we immediately go from a capacity of 30 patients to a capacity of 120 patients," said Dr. Steve Adelman, a psychiatrist with the company. ;

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Source: JoinTogether Online