MONTHLY | August 2020
MACS provides support to Maryland prescribers and their practices in addressing the needs of their patients with substance use disorders and chronic pain management.
1-855-337-MACS (6227) | www.marylandMACS.org | tsommer@som.umaryland.edu
NEWS
Physicians’ progress toward ending the nation’s drug overdose and death epidemic
This report from AMA's Opioid Task Force shows physicians have continued to educate themselves on safe prescribing, pain management and recognizing signs of addiction. Yet, illicit drugs are now the dominant reason why drug overdoses kill more than 70,000 people each year. Read more... and call MACS for educational opportunities and support for treating patients with substance use disorders or pain.
Expanded Telehealth Helps Communities Address Opioid Use Disorder During Pandemic
This PEW article addresses how increase in telehealth use and access has improved access in some underserved areas for OUD treatment. Read more...
Managing patients with chronic pain during the COVID-19 outbreak: considerations for the rapid introduction of remotely supported (eHealth) pain management services
Pain management providers face the challenge of delivering face-to-face service through different modes. Fortunately, there is a rich stream of research and clinical experience in the use of different technological solutions. Read more...
Buprenorphine prescription dispensing rates and characteristics following federal changes in prescribing policy, 2017-2018: A cross-sectional study
This report found that the number of buprenorphine prescriptions dispensed increase 9.1% from 2017 to 2018. Read more...
HOLIDAYS | The MACS line will be closed:
Labor Day - Monday, September 7, 2020
#MACSpotlight - July
Get to know the MACS team!
Each month we will feature a MACS team member in the #MACSpotlight.
Follow us on social media for the next #MACSpotlight on Friday, 8/21.
August Awareness Campaigns
8/9 - 8/15: National Health Center Week
8/31: International Overdose Awareness Day
EDUCATION
Opioid Use Disorders and Pregnancy
Tuesday, August 25, 2020 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Live, free CME webinar

Presented by MACS Consultant, Christopher Welsh, MD
Save the date for our upcoming fall trainings and
stay tuned for details!
Understanding the Opioid Epidemic: Provider's Role in the Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder
Thursday, September 24, 2020 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Live, virtual & free CME event

Presented by MACS Consultant, Eric Weintraub, MD
PCSS Half & Half Waiver Trainings
Tuesday, October 6, 2020 | 8:00 am - 12:15 pm

Thursday, October 29, 2020 | 8:00 am - 12:15 pm

Live, virtual & free CME events presented by MACS Consultants
Motivational Enhancement Therapy for Substance Use Disorders
Friday, October 9, 2020 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Live, free CME webinar

Presented by MACS Consultant, David McDuff, MD
Past Webinars
Visit the MACS Webinar Archive
RESOURCES
Racial Disparities in Accessing Evidence-Based OUD Treatment and the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic 
Talking To Change: A Motivational Interviewing Podcast
Health Privacy Rule 42 CFR Part 2 Is Revised, Modernizing Care Coordination for Americans Seeking Treatment for Substance Use Disorders
ACCESS Maryland Harm Reduction
The Maryland Department of Health formed the Center for Harm Reduction Services that envisions a Maryland where health care and social service systems meet the needs of people who use drugs in a comprehensive, community-based manner. They support syringe service programs, naloxone distribution, and resource allocation for harm reduction programs programs across the state. Learn more...