Report Finds Opioid Epidemic Costs the US $1 Trillion Each Year

When someone asks, “How much does the opioid epidemic cost?”, they are often talking about its effects on our country, communities, and economy. It is important for us all to understand just how devastating opioid addiction can be. Even if addiction starts because of prescription misuse, it can lead to long-term losses on which it is hard to put a dollar amount. Our team at Advanced Rapid Detox wants you to know the real opioid epidemic facts.

Opioid Epidemic Annual Cost to the United States

Substance use is estimated to cost the United States economy over $1 trillion each year, nearly doubling what it was just four years ago. Areas of spending that are considered when calculating these total costs include healthcare costs, workplace productivity loss, criminal justice costs, research and prevention, public assistance, social services, traffic collisions, fires, and intangible costs (e.g., decreased quality of life).

Compare the Cost of Addiction Treatment

Many people struggling with addiction have concerns about whether they can pay for treatment. Treatment expenses for drug and alcohol addiction can vary depending on the type of treatment being sought, location, and other factors.

Detox services, for instance, can cost between $250 to $800 a day out-of-pocket, while residential rehab programs can cost between $2,000 to $25,000 depending on the length of stay and amenities offered. Depending on the substance and severity of someone’s addiction, it is not uncommon to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars in a short time to maintain drug or drinking habits.

In comparison, getting treatment can provide significantly more value personally and financially. Most insurance companies are required by law to provide some level of coverage for mental and behavioral health services, which includes drug and alcohol rehab. This can reduce costs for people with insurance who are seeking treatment.

Seeking Treatment Helps the Economy

The U.S. economy also benefits from people seeking treatment for drug and alcohol problems.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA):

• For each dollar spent on addiction treatment, an estimated $4 to $7 is yielded due to a reduction in drug-related crime and theft.
• When healthcare costs are added, the ratio of savings exceeds the costs of treatment 12 to 1.
• Addiction treatment increases employment prospects by 40 percent and reduces arrests for drug-related crimes by 40 to 60 percent.

Has your Life Been Affected by Opioids?

Advanced Rapid Detox in Detroit, Michigan will help you get back on track! With our rapid opiate detoxification program, we will help you rid your body of opioids in as little as three days, and all while under medically supervised sedation. To learn more, please contact Advanced Rapid Detox at (800) 603-1813 or contact us online.