Jul 25, 2018
Yesterday the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers provided testimony to the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, regarding the Association’s Quality Assurance Initiative. Marvin Ventrell outlined the steps NAATP has taken to raise the ethical bar for its members through the initiative.
The hearing focused on deceptive practices mainly through web-based advertising, however, many ethical problems in the field were mentioned. NAATP has been working with the committee for months and was pleased that we were asked to testify. Along with NAATP's Executive Director, Hazelden-Betty Ford Foundation's CEO, Mark Mishek, was also on the panel, along with representatives from several companies the committee felt engaged in questionable behavior.
We were pleased that Congress recognizes the diligent work NAATP has undertaken through our Quality Assurance Initiative, and that we are seen as raising the standard of care across the board. I’ve observed congressional hearings for over 25 years and was extremely proud of the reception accorded to our Executive Director as well as the tremendous job Marvin did presenting NAATP’s role in addressing the ethical problems in the field.
The National Association will continue to work with the Committee and Congress to advance the interests of quality substance use disorder treatment for everyone in need. We’ll see if that results in federal legislation or increased pressure on states to address these issues.
Read highlights from the hearing
Watch the full recorded hearing
Mark Dunn
NAATP Director of Public Policy
Washington, DC
