Analysis of Expenses and Usage Patterns in Inpatient Mental Health and Substance Abuse Care
-
By
-
Lynne Cotter
-
Nirmita Panchal
-
Gary Claxton
-
Justin Lo
-
June 29, 2026
Objective:
To analyze the costs and utilization patterns of inpatient treatment for mental health and substance use in 2023.
Approach:
- Data Source: Utilized claims data from the 2023 Merative MarketScan Commercial Claims Database.
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 a mental health admission was $15,900.
- The average total inpatient cost for a substance use admission was $15,500.
- There were 32 inpatient stays per 10,000 enrollees for mental health and substance use treatment.
Interpretation:
Conclusion:
Sources:
