GLMS Policy & Advocacy 2017 KMA Resolutions | Page 5

Adopted as Amended 2017-5 RESOLUTION Subject: Evidence Based Treatment and Harm Reduction Submitted by: Greater Louisville Medical Society Referred to: Reference Committee WHEREAS, the treatment of psychiatric and addictive diseases are best treated by physicians with biological, psychological, and social approaches; and WHEREAS, the epidemic of drug abuse requires evidence based prevention, treatment, and harm reduction approaches; and WHEREAS, training must be available so that an adequate number of physicians are prepared to provide treatment; and WHEREAS, patients with these disorders require sensitivity to their faith traditions, and can benefit from engagement of their full support systems, including faith leaders; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the Kentucky Medical Association (1) encourage Kentucky policy-makers to pursue an approach to the problem of drug abuse aimed at preventing the initiation of drug use, aiding those who wish to cease drug use, and diminishing the adverse consequences of drug use, by embracing a medical and public health approach; (2) encourage the expansion of opioid maintenance medication programs so that opioid maintenance therapy can be available for any individual who applies and for whom the treatment is suitable; (3) support treatment that is driven by patient needs, medical judgment, and recovery concerns; (4) acknowledge the benefits of abstinence from or reduction of drug use with the 4 primary goals of chronic disease treatment of decreased related mortality, decreased related morbidity, decreased total cost of care, and improved functioning/quality of life; (5) encourage the extensive application of needle and syringe exchange and distribution programs; (6) supports mental health and community partnerships that foster improved education and understanding regarding culturally competent, medically accepted, and scientifically proven methods of care for psychiatric and substance use disorders; (7) supports efforts of mental health providers to create respectful, collaborative relationships with local community leaders to improve access to scientifically sound mental health services. KMA House of Delegates August 2017