A new audit released by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office has found some addiction treatment programs may not be adequately prepared in an emergency to prevent gaps in care, which could compromise patient progress or safety.
The audit covered the period from 2019 to 2022. It found that the state’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports, known as OASAS, must improve its oversight and monitoring of nearly 400 certified providers that offer vital programs to thousands of New Yorkers battling substance abuse disorders or gambling addiction. Auditors determined OASAS needs to improve its guidance for the emergency plans for residential or inpatient programs for substance abuse disorders, and must also take steps to better locate patients as well as improve the accuracy of their waiting lists.
DiNapoli offered several recommendations to OASIS, including reviewing emergency plans subsequent to initial program certification, improving the use of waiting list data submitted by providers, and incorporating provisions that address providers’ plans to manage and mitigate disruptions in service.
