It’s arguable that the opioid epidemic is one of the worst our country has ever seen. In fact, the opioid crisis has played a direct role in U.S. life expectancy falling over the last two years. Unfortunately, Ohio has not been immune to the damage.
In 2017, Ohio had the second highest rate of opioid related drug overdose deaths in the country. The problem is all too real for Ohio communities. It’s an epidemic that doesn’t discriminate and has the ability to reach into every part of society.
But there is hope for those suffering from opioid addiction to find recovery. Ohio Medicaid has given Ohioans more options to fight against opioid addiction. We’re going to take a look at the opioid epidemic in Ohio and how Medicaid is trying to help our state heal from addiction.
The Opioid Epidemic and Ohio
Recently, Cleveland’s Cuyahoga County and Akron’s Summit County reached a settlement for 260 million dollars with three major drug companies. This is a testament to the severity of the opioid epidemic and how hard our state is willing to fight for the future.
While this is a step in the right direction, there is still a lot of work to do. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Ohio is one of the only states that saw the number of uninsured people rise over the last year. Why does that matter? Without insurance, people struggling with opioid addiction are less likely to seek treatment.
But thanks to Ohio’s Medicaid options for opioid treatment, the problem can be addressed head on.
The Importance of Ohio Medicaid for Opioid Addiction
Before Medicaid was accepted for treating addiction, there wasn’t a level playing field for those suffering. There were barriers preventing people from getting the opioid addiction treatment they needed.
But in September of this year, the federal government passed a waiver that now permits Ohio’s Department of Medicaid to provide additional services to people suffering from opioid addiction.
With the new Medicaid policies, the goal is to treat addiction on the same level as physical ailments. One hurdle is accomplishing that goal is the availability of quality care. For example, it’s much easier to find treatment for a broken leg than finding effective treatment for opioid addiction.
How Medicaid Options Help Opioid Addiction
The main benefit of Ohio’s Medicaid options for opioid addiction is reducing the barriers to treatment. It’s no secret that the cost of treatment is one of the leading reasons people don’t seek help. But research has shown that people on Medicaid are twice as likely as someone who is uninsured to seek addiction treatment.
Aside from providing those suffering from opioid addiction greater access to care, there’s another way Medicaid is fighting back. Ohio Medicaid providers are working to reduce the number of opioids their plan prescribes patients. The hope is that by lowering the number of prescriptions, fewer Ohioans will develop an addiction.
Ohio Medicaid Providers that Provide Opioid Addiction Coverage
If you or your loved one is struggling with an opioid addiction, your Medicaid insurance could offer coverage for treatment. Some of the Medicaid providers that can offer help include:
If you’re interested in learning more, the Ohio Department of Medicaid has resources that can help.
Quality Opioid Addiction Treatment at Silver Maple Recovery
At Silver Maple Recovery, we work to help you break free from the grips of addiction. If you or your loved one is struggling with opioids, we’re here to give you the tools for lasting change and recovery. Together, we can do our part in stopping the epidemic that is casting a shadow over our state and local communities.
Are you ready to take a step towards recovery? Our team of professional care givers are available 24/7 to assist you and answer any questions you may have. Contact our team online or call us today at (855) 762-7531.
