This week, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) met with the leadership of Odyssey House Louisiana (OHL) to discuss how they are treating people with opioid addictions. They also discussed federal efforts to stop the flow of opioids into the United States.
"Senator Cassidy has long been a champion of Louisiana’s most vulnerable citizens. We are appreciative of his leadership in parity efforts so that coverage for behavioral health is comparable to coverage for other forms of medical care," said OHL CEO Ed Carlson. "As Louisiana and the nation battle multiple crises of addiction and substance use, the conversations we have about overcoming these challenges must be centered around treatment, and we are grateful that the policymakers, stakeholders, and fellow providers present today see the importance of this ongoing dialogue and action steps.”
Participants also included Louisiana Office of Behavioral Health Asst. Secretary Karen Stubbs, Governor's Office of Drug Policy Director Kristy Miller, New Orleans Health Dept. Director Dr. Jennifer Avegno, and Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson. Cont.