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Substance Use Disorder

Please find an updated stakeholder message regarding DHS’ actions in response to the COVID-19 crisis. This message contains the information shared by Secretary Miller on the March 25 stakeholder call. Please know that the situation remains fluid and responses will continue to evolve; the most up to date information is available on the DHS website. Thank you for your partnership and for all you are doing to serve Pennsylvanians during this time.

On March 6, 2020, pursuant to the provisions of section 7301(c) of the Emergency Management Services Code, 35 Pa. C.S. §§ 7101, et seq., Governor Tom Wolf issued a Proclamation of Disaster Emergency related to the novel Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Pursuant to authorization from the Governor in accordance with the proclamation, and consistent with the SAMHSA guidance, the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) is suspending:

  • Regulation at 28 Pa. Code § 715.9(a)(4), which requires Narcotic Treatment Programs (NTPs) to make a face-to-face determination before admission to treatment, for those clients who will receive buprenorphine treatment. View Licensing Alert 02-20 for more details.
  • Regulation at 28 Pa. Code § 715.6(d), which requires NTPs to have narcotic treatment physician services onsite. View Licensing Alert 03-20 for more details.

Questions regarding these Licensing Alerts can be directed to the Division of Drug and Alcohol Program Licensing at 717-783-8675 or via email.

For further information, please contact Jack Phillips.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has released Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Medicare Provider Enrollment Relief related to COVID-19. Also included are toll-free hotlines available to provide enrollment information and answer questions related to COVID-19 enrollment requirements.

For a complete and updated list of CMS actions, guidance, and other information in response to COVID-19, members should visit the Current Emergencies website.