Amendment #11 to H4743

substance use disorder and treatment disparities in the minority community

Mr. Ramos of Springfield moves to amend the bill by adding the following new section:

“SECTION XX.  The commission shall study the disproportionate impact substance use disorders and overdoses have on the minority community of the commonwealth and corresponding disparities in substance use disorder treatment access. The commission shall: 1) review current data and trends regarding substance use and overdose rates, disparities in treatment access, and corresponding causes in the minority community; 2) evaluate the effectiveness of current treatment interventions within minority communities; 3) identify barriers to accessing treatment, including lack of necessary resources, education, access and training to medical needs, and the need for culturally appropriate care and intervention; and 4) recommend evidence-based strategies to reduce overdose deaths and to improve access, treatment, and education in the minority community.

2 appointed commissioners shall be representatives from advocacy organizations with expertise in racial disparities in health care"

Additional co-sponsor(s) added to Amendment #11, as changed to H4743

substance use disorder and treatment disparities in the minority community