The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is updating data collection methods for the Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS) and related datasets, which track substance use and mental health treatment services. Revisions include mapping state data systems through crosswalks, updating terminology to reduce stigma, and adding fields like sexual orientation and gender identity. The changes aim to make data more inclusive and align with national guidelines and reporting requirements. Public comments on these proposed changes are invited for a 30-day period.
Simple Explanation
The government wants to update how it collects information about people getting help for drug and mental health issues, making sure to use kind words and ask new questions about things like how people feel and who they love. They're asking people to give their thoughts on these changes to make sure they're good and helpful.