Comment on DOD_FRDOC_0001-3051

I have submitted the comment below on letterhead using the file upload function. Here is the text. As a researcher and clinician in the addiction field, I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed inclusion in TRICARE of coverage for methadone and buprenorphine maintenance for drug dependent individuals. Extensive research – much of it conducted with former military personnel receiving care in the Veterans Health Administration – indicates that opiate substitution therapies sharply reduce illicit drug use and risk of fatal overdose. These therapies have also been proven highly cost-effective. At a time when a growing number of U.S. military personnel are reporting problems with prescription and non-prescription opioids, the addition of this benefit to TRICARE is critically important. For the regulatory change to be maximally beneficial to the health of our military personnel and their families, it should be coupled with extensive outreach to TRICARE providers to make them aware of the new insurance benefit. Thank you for proposing this major step forward for the TRICARE program.