posted by AHIP
on October 26, 2020
Many people who suffer from substance use disorders (SUD) face new challenges as we continue to battle the COVID-19 crisis, from social distancing to shifting priorities for health care resources.
In 2017, an estimated 1.7 million Americans suffered from substance use disorders. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 130 people die each day after overdosing on opioids, and the National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that substance abuse costs the United States more than $600 billion per year.
The figures are striking, as is the impact on patients, families, and communities around the country.
This case study from the Center for Health Care Strategies explores a partnership in Minnesota between UCare and the Hennepin County Health and Human Services Department. UCare invested in improvements to Hennepin County’s detoxification and treatment programs and facilities – reaching members in need to get them the right care at the right time. UCare grants provided:
The program has earned positive feedback from patients and shown fewer inpatient admissions for SUD-related diagnoses.
“Everybody wins,” says Jennifer Garber, Associate Vice President of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders at UCare. “UCare funding helped Hennepin County transition its detox center to a withdrawal management center – now a welcoming, holistic and respectful service for community members. This effort and the Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor positions UCare supported in Hennepin Healthcare’s ER are truly transforming how medicine is practiced to improve health.”
Around the country, health insurance providers are teaming up with community organizations and service providers to reach and help patients in need.
Health insurance providers have seen the devastating impact substance user disorder has on millions of Americans. They remain committed to improving the health and well-being of the members and communities they serve.