Commentary: Data segmentation, hidden medical records are driving inequity in addiction treatment

Modern Healthcare

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When it comes to substance use and addiction, frontline healthcare providers are often in the dark.

As our country battles opioid addiction, the healthcare data that doctors, hospitals and public health professionals need is inaccessible. Separate privacy laws that govern access to medical records for substance-use disorders, versus every other medical condition, including HIV/AIDS, mental health and cancer, are affecting how providers treat patients suffering from addiction.