January is Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month. What behavioral health providers can do that actually moves the needle

January is Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month, and it is a timely reminder that treatment works when access, engagement, and continuity of care are intentionally designed. Behavioral health providers can use this month to strengthen intake workflows, reduce barriers, improve screening and referral handoffs, and reinforce retention practices that keep clients connected to the right level of care.

If you are a treatment center, IOP, PHP, outpatient clinic, or recovery program, this is also the right time to audit your documentation and compliance readiness. Clear access points, consistent clinical documentation, and strong care coordination support better outcomes and reduce risk during payer audits and regulatory reviews.