OHSU's Improving Addiction Care Team advocates for updated hospital standards under House Bill 2506

In a pivotal meeting of the Joint Committee on Addiction and Community Safety Response, held on March 19, 2025, Oregon lawmakers and health professionals gathered to address the escalating opioid crisis that has gripped the state. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as experts shared compelling evidence on the effectiveness of integrating addiction treatment into emergency care settings.

Richard Rudinski, a key speaker, emphasized the critical role of emergency departments (EDs) in managing opioid use disorder. He highlighted that patients engaged in treatment during emergency visits are more likely to continue their medication, with retention rates sometimes doubling compared to other settings. This retention is not just a statistic; it correlates with significant reductions in criminal justice involvement, the spread of infectious diseases, and, most importantly, overdose fatalities. Rudinski pointed out that medications for opioid use disorder are among the most protective factors against overdose deaths, underscoring the need for systemic changes in how care is delivered.

The meeting also featured Dr. Anora Englander from Oregon Health Science University, who shared a poignant story that propelled her to advocate for better addiction care in hospitals. She recounted the tragic case of a young woman who suffered severe health complications due to substance use but received inadequate addiction treatment during her hospital stays. This experience led to the establishment of the Improving Addiction Care Team (IMPACT) at OHSU, which has since grown to include over 30 staff members across multiple hospitals. Dr. Englander called for legislative support for House Bill 2506, which aims to establish new standards for addiction care in hospitals, arguing that such measures could transform patient outcomes and save lives.

The discussions highlighted a pressing need for a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment that extends beyond traditional settings. By bolstering systems of care in acute settings, the committee aims to create pathways for effective treatment that not only improve individual health outcomes but also alleviate the burden on healthcare workers and reduce overall costs.

As the meeting concluded, the sense of urgency remained palpable. Oregon's rising overdose rates demand immediate action, and the integration of addiction care into emergency services could be a crucial step in addressing this public health crisis. The committee's commitment to reforming healthcare standards reflects a broader recognition of the need for innovative solutions in the fight against addiction.