The opioid epidemic has hurt communities and families across our nation.  

As pharmacists, we understand the powerfully addictive nature of these medications. We also understand the challenges presented in ending one’s dependence on opioids. For many people, medication is the most powerful tool in treating their addiction. 

Thankfully, pharmacists are perfectly positioned to support recovery. As the most accessible health care providers in the United States, pharmacists can reach most people in need. Additionally, our high-level of training allows us, in many cases, to initiate treatment for opioid addiction. 

Congress has recognized our position, and they want to further empower pharmacists to fight back against the opioid epidemic. The Substance Use Prevention and Pharmacy Oriented Recovery Treatment Prescription (SUPPORT Rx) Act aims to expand access to addiction care programs by centering these programs in pharmacies. 

The bipartisan SUPPORT Rx Act would empower pharmacists to make a significant impact by: 

• Providing grants to develop community pharmacy-based addiction care programs; 
• Creating grant to pharmacies so they can establish, maintain, or enhance addiction care services; 
• Allowing pharmacists to offer buprenorphine for opioid use disorders, including withdrawal management and ongoing maintenance treatment; 
• Reducing barriers to treatment by facilitating same-day services regarding of the patient’s payment ability, insurance, age, or access to identification; 
• Further training pharmacists to effectively treat and manage patients with substance use disorders. 

Please take a moment to ask your Members of Congress to support treatment access and pharmacists by co-sponsoring the Support Rx Act.