Exploring the Connection Between Medications for Addiction and Healthcare Resource Use
-
By
-
Eden Y. Bernstein
-
October 1, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Exploring the Connection Between Medications for Addiction and Healthcare Resource Use
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) |
| Key Mechanisms | Guideline-recommended medications for AUD and OUD can reduce substance use and enhance treatment retention. |
| Target Population | US adults aged 12 years and older with past-year AUD or OUD. |
| Care Setting | Primary care, specialty care, emergency departments, and hospitalizations. |
Key Highlights
- Only 2% of adults with AUD and 30% with OUD received medication treatment in the past year.
- Healthcare utilization was more frequent among patients receiving MAUD compared to those receiving no medications.
- Significant associations were found between MAUD use and increased emergency department visits and hospitalizations.
- Demographic distinctions indicate that those receiving treatment tend to have greater socioeconomic disadvantage and more severe disorders.
- The study's cross-sectional design limits causal interpretations regarding medication use and healthcare encounters.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Utilize formal diagnostic criteria for AUD and OUD screening.
Management
- Expand access to MAUD and MOUD to improve treatment rates.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Consider structured interventions to address social vulnerabilities affecting treatment retention.
Risks
- Self-reported healthcare utilization may be subject to recall bias.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Adults with past-year AUD and OUD in the US.
MAUD and MOUD are underused despite their potential benefits in reducing healthcare utilization.
Clinical Best Practices
- Implement care navigation to assist patients with socioeconomic disadvantages.
- Encourage early initiation of treatment to prevent progression of addiction.
Related Resources & Content
