Here’s what you need to know:
1. Mr. Obama called on Congress to provide $1.1 billion to expand access to opioid abuse prevention and treatment programs. These programs include increasing access to naloxone and directing more addicts to treatment, rather than jail.
2. The FDA launched the 2016 Naloxone App Competition, a public contest encouraging individuals to develop low-cost apps to help first responders identify and react to an opioid overdose.
3. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is investing $4.7 million into grants that will allow rural communities to use communications technology to expand access to healthcare resources, including substance use treatment.
4. The Obama administration is working with the Chinese government to reduce the supply of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, that drug traffickers are bringing into the United States.
5. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration announced its 12th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, slated for Oct. 22. This annual initiative provides safe methods for disposing of unneeded prescription drugs, while also educating the public on medication abuse.
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At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.