Background

1. Proposed 2010 Mortality Data Collection Form for Opioid Treatment Programs A. R. Walizada, SAMHSA/CSAT/DPT J. C. Maxwell, University of Texas at Austin J. Waddell, American Institutes for Research S. K. R. Heil, American Institutes for Research Proposed 2010 Mortality Data Collection Form Background In November 2008, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT) implemented voluntary data collection of all cases of patient mortality among patients receiving treatment in opioid treatment programs (OTPs). In the first year of voluntary reporting (2009), 161 OTPs in 29 states reported at least one patient death. OTPs could report mortality events either online or by faxing a paper form to CSAT. Utility of the Data Although reliant on preliminary causes of death, and not necessarily the official medical examiner’s report, the data show the extent of physical and mental problems of individuals who were reported to have died while in an OTP. The results also point to the need to manage the mortality risks to reduce the number of deaths and improve patient health and safety. The data will enable SAMHSA to prioritize prevention and education activities and improve policies and procedures related to addiction treatment in OTPs. Recommendations The report recommended revising the data collection form to improve data quality and minimize reporting burden on OTPs. SAMHSA consulted a panel of OTP providers and other advisors to seek feedback on the suggested revisions. The revised form will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget for approval and use. The panel supported this reporting process and recommended participation by all OTPs to provide nationwide data on OTP patient deaths. For additional information, contact: Alina R. WalizadaDivision of Pharmacologic TherapiesCSAT Phone: 240-276-2755E-mail: alina.walizada@samhsa.hhs.gov Form—Page 1 Form—Page 2