Massachusetts Laws

Requirements for Licensure and Operations of Medications for Opioid Use Disorder Treatment

Question:

Are OTPs required to perform routine drug screening?

Answer:
Yes
This answer is derived from 3 section of law
Citation:
  • citation 1: see full citation
    (3) tests for the presence of opiates, alcohol, benzodiazepines, cocaine and other drugs of abuse as indicated by the patient’s current substance use history. see full law
  • citation 2: see full citation
    (2) At least 15 additional random drug screens for opioids, cocaine and benzodiazepines for each client during each year in treatment. For clients who are prescribed, administered, or dispensed partial or full agonist, the 15 random drug screens must include testing for the presence for these specific medications. In addition, the Commissioner, as necessary to protect the health and safety of individuals in Opioid Treatment Programs, may authorize the addition of a drug to the testing regimen, state-wide or in a particular region of the state, based on changes in identified drug use. Such requirements shall not exceed a period of 12 months without amendment to 105 CMR 164.000. Licensees may provide 24-hour notice when urine testing is used. For all other testing methods, no prior notice shall be given. The licensee shall document measures taken to prevent adulteration of samples and to ensure a chain of custody. see full law
  • citation 3: see full citation
    The licensee shall provide for testing and analysis for drugs of abuse, and shall establish written policies and procedures for guarding against adulteration of such tests. see full law