What is the training requirement for a PA to be eligible for a DATA waiver?

For a Physician Assistant (PA) to be eligible for a DATA waiver, they are required to complete 24 hours of training that is specifically focused on the treatment of substance use disorders. This training is essential because it equips PAs with the necessary knowledge and skills to prescribe medications for opioid use disorder in compliance with federal regulations. The requirement is part of the efforts to ensure that healthcare providers are adequately trained to address the opioid crisis, enabling them to provide safe and effective treatment to patients struggling with addiction.

In the context of this question, other response options do not meet the requirements established under the Drug Addiction Treatment Act (DATA). For instance, asserting that no training is required would undermine the critical need for proper education and preparation in handling substance use disorders. Similarly, the specified hours of 10 or 40 do not align with the mandated 24 hours set forth for PAs. Knowing the correct training requirement is pivotal for PAs seeking to enhance their practice by providing comprehensive care for patients with substance use issues.