The American Psychological Association (APA) has expressed approval for the recent actions taken by the Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to enhance support for individuals dealing with substance use disorders. SAMHSA's decision involves expanding incentives under a treatment protocol known as contingency management.

Contingency management is recognized as an evidence-based method for treating substance use disorders, particularly effective in reducing drug use. It is noted that approximately 50% of recent drug overdose deaths in the United States involve stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine. Unlike opioid use disorders, stimulant use disorders lack highly effective medications. The APA views SAMHSA's move to increase maximum incentive payments tenfold as a significant advancement in addressing these issues.

"This change is essential to providing effective treatment for patients struggling with stimulant use disorder," stated Jaime L. Diaz-Granados, PhD, Deputy CEO of APA. "Contingency management is the gold standard of care for these patients. By increasing the maximum incentive payment, SAMHSA has taken an important step in ensuring that patients receive the evidence-based treatment they need to break free from addiction. Make no mistake, this change will save lives and protect families."

Typically, contingency management programs offer rewards such as gift cards or vouchers to patients who test negative for drugs, alongside other treatments. Previously, annual incentive amounts were capped at $75 per patient—a limit deemed insufficient for lasting behavior change. The new policy raises this cap to $750 annually, allowing more effective treatment options.

"Research shows that contingency management can be highly effective, and this increase will allow providers to offer meaningful incentives that can significantly improve outcomes," added Diaz-Granados. "This change is vital for patients struggling with stimulant use disorder, as it empowers both them and their providers with the tools necessary for sustained recovery."