Medscape January 21, 2025
TOPLINE:
A public health crisis related to substance use disorder is evident in the United States, marked by a surge in cases since the COVID-19 pandemic and a decline in treatment due to disrupted healthcare services. However, rates of people receiving treatment began improving in 2022, likely due to the reopening of programs and an increased use of telehealth services.
METHODOLOGY:
- This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health of treatment needs, treatment receipts, perceived needs, and treatment barriers associated with substance use disorders among 657,583 noninstitutionalized Americans aged 12 years or more from 2013 to 2023.
- Substance use disorder was categorized into alcohol, drug, or opioid use disorder.
- Respondents were deemed in...