Clinical Report: Cost and Utilization of Inpatient Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment

Overview

In 2023, inpatient treatment for mental health and substance use represented 10% of total commercial inpatient stays. The average total inpatient cost for mental health admissions was $15,900, while for substance use admissions it was $15,500, based on claims data from the 2023 Merative MarketScan Commercial Claims Database.

Background

Inpatient care for mental health and substance use disorders is a critical component of the healthcare system. This analysis provides insights into the costs associated with inpatient treatment for these conditions.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Inpatient treatment for mental health and substance use accounted for 10% of total commercial inpatient stays in 2023.
• The average total inpatient cost for mental health admissions was $15,900.
• The average total inpatient cost for substance use admissions was $15,500.
• This analysis utilized claims data from the 2023 Merative MarketScan Commercial Claims Database.
• Patients' out-of-pocket expenses were included in the total cost analysis.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should be aware of the significant costs associated with inpatient mental health and substance use treatment. This information can guide discussions with patients regarding financial planning and resource allocation within healthcare systems.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the substantial economic impact of inpatient mental health and substance use treatment, underscoring the need for ongoing analysis and policy considerations in this area.

Related Resources & Content

1. Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), Source, 2023 -- Medicaid Mental Health and Substance Use: Expansion Trends and the Fiscal Pressure Ahead
2. Drugs - Real World Outcomes, Source, 2023 -- An Examination of Out-of-Pocket Expenses for Antipsychotic Medications Among Medicaid Recipients Diagnosed with Schizophrenia
3. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, Source, 2023 -- Evaluating the Effectiveness of Natural Language Processing in Identifying Hospitalized Individuals with Substance Use Disorders
4. conexiant — Low Follow-Up After Behavioral ED Care
5. VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline for Assessment and Management of Patients at Risk for Suicide
6. Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Suicidal Inpatients
7. Premature Death, Suicide, and Nonlethal Self-Harm After Psychiatric Discharge
8. ASAM Criteria
9. Opioid Use Disorder: Treating | Overdose Prevention | CDC
10. 42 CFR Part 8 Final Rule | SAMHSA
11. The ASAM/AAAP Clinical Practice Guideline on the Management of Stimulant Use Disorder - PMC
12. Management of alcohol withdrawal syndromes in general hospital settings | The BMJ