NJATOD’s advocacy letter outlining critical operational readiness concerns surrounding New Jersey’s planned transition of substance use disorder laboratory services into managed care. Drawing on statewide provider survey data, the letter recommends essential safeguards needed to preserve clinical workflow, patient safety, and uninterrupted access to laboratory services within Opioid Treatment Programs.
Advocacy
State & Federal Policy / Regulatory Updates
Download NJATOD’s recommendations for ensuring operational readiness before implementation of the SUD Laboratory Carve-In, including statewide survey findings, workflow considerations, and practical safeguards designed to protect patient care and provider operations throughout the transition.
Date: March 25, 2026
Key takeaways
- Operational readiness matters: Successful implementation depends on laboratories supporting OTP workflows—not simply contracting with managed care organizations.
- Survey-driven recommendations: NJATOD surveyed member providers representing approximately 60% of the membership to identify operational requirements and transition risks.
- Protect continuity of care: Daily specimen pickup, rapid turnaround times, EHR integration, customized reporting, and technical support are essential components of quality patient care.
What’s inside
- Results from NJATOD’s statewide OTP laboratory readiness survey.
- Operational challenges associated with transitioning laboratory services into managed care.
- Clinical workflow requirements necessary to maintain patient safety and regulatory compliance.
- Recommended statewide readiness standards and implementation safeguards.
- Eight pre-transition actions requested before the laboratory carve-in proceeds.
