SAMSHA Study Focuses on Uninsured

An estimated 3 million full-time workers without health insurance needed substance use treatment in the past year, according to a national survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Levels of need were particularly high among those ages 18-25 (24%) and men (19%).

The survey also revealed that among these uninsured workers in need of substance abuse treatment, only 13% received treatment in a special facility. More than 80 percent of uninsured full-time workers needing treatment in the past year did not perceive a need for treatment. The remaining 7% of workers in need of treatment did perceive the need for treatment but did not receive it.

"This tremendous unmet need for substance abuse treatment among this work force has a devastating public health and economic effect on our nation," SAMSHA administrator Pamela S. Hyde. "We cannot afford to ignore this problem -- substance use disorder treatment has proven to be a cost-effective investment for promoting safe and productive workplaces as well as renewed hope for those affected by this disease."

Story here.