Buprenorphine Uptake and Medicaid's Role in Addiction Treatment
Episode Overview
Federal policy changes aimed at increasing buprenorphine prescribing had mixed results across states. Medicaid played a crucial role in driving prescription rates for opioid use disorder. Certain demographics continue to experience high overdose mortality rates. Substance use navigators can significantly impact treatment initiation and readmission rates. State strategies include removing prior authorization and increasing provider numbers for OUD medications.
"Medicaid's key role in driving overall prescribing highlights the public health urgency of maintaining expansions."
How do people cope with the challenges of staying sober when state policies vary so widely? This episode of 'This Week in Addiction Medicine' tackles the complexities of buprenorphine uptake and its connection to Medicaid prescribing from 2018 to 2024. Listeners will learn how federal policy changes intended to close the treatment gap for opioid use disorder (OUD) didn't quite pan out as expected on a national level.
Instead, state-specific factors played a significant role, highlighting the importance of Medicaid in driving prescription rates. The episode doesn't stop there; it dives into various studies that paint a broader picture of addiction issues. From examining overdose mortality rates among different demographics to the impact of stimulant use disorder diagnoses in young Medicaid enrollees, you'll find a wealth of information that might just change how you view addiction medicine.
The hosts also discuss the innovative role of substance use navigators in hospitals and the potential for states to expand access to medications for OUD through strategic proposals. Whether you're interested in the role of methylphenidate in treating cocaine use disorder or curious about the so-called 'gas station heroin,' this episode covers it all with a blend of expert insights and real-world data. It's an eye-opener for anyone keen on understanding the challenges and triumphs in addiction medicine today.
So, are you ready to explore how policy, medicine, and personal stories intersect in the battle against addiction?