AAPA Applauds HHS Investment to Expand Addiction Treatment
ALEXANDRIA, Va. (February 4, 2026) — The American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) applauds the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) announcement of a $100 million federal investment to expand addiction treatment, recovery, and homelessness services across the country.
Announced this week, the funding builds on years of federal action to strengthen access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT), including the repeal of the buprenorphine X-waiver. AAPA has long advocated for eliminating unnecessary barriers to treat patients with substance use disorder (SUD).
Since the elimination of the X-waiver in 2022, PAs now serve as essential providers of these services nationwide, particularly in rural and underserved communities where patients disproportionately rely on PAs for access to care.
“In communities across the country, physician associates are often on the front lines of treating substance use disorders and caring for patients at critical moments of need,” said Chantell Taylor, Chief Public Affairs and Advocacy Officer at AAPA. “This federal investment recognizes the importance of meeting patients where they are, equipping providers with the resources needed to deliver care, and will be an important chapter in our nation’s fight against addiction.”
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Media Contact: Jenni Roberson, 703.380.2764
About the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA)
AAPA is the national membership organization for all physician associates/assistants (PAs). PAs are licensed clinicians who practice medicine in every specialty and setting. Trusted, rigorously educated and trained healthcare professionals, PAs are dedicated to expanding access to care and transforming health and wellness through patient-centered, team-based medical practice. Learn more about the profession at aapa.org and engage through Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and X.
