Stigma's Impact on Addiction Treatment Access

The High Cost of Untreated Addiction

Unfortunately, people who experience stigma regarding their drug use are less likely to seek treatment, which results in significant economic, social, and medical costs. In the United States, the costs associated with untreated addiction—including those related to healthcare, criminal justice, and lost productivity—amounted to a staggering $510 billion (Harwood, 2000).

Stigma in Healthcare: A Barrier to Care

Perceived stigma in hospitals or doctors’ offices can significantly discourage individuals from accessing essential healthcare services. While having a trusted primary care doctor is associated with maintaining well-being and a good quality of life, studies reveal that some healthcare providers feel uncomfortable working with people dependent on drugs.

Provider Attitudes Impact Treatment Willingness

For instance, a study on nurses’ attitudes towards patients found that the majority held negative views about people who used drugs (Howard & Chung, 2000). Similarly, a UK study revealed that most nurses harbored stigma against injection drug users (Monks, Topping, & Newell, 2013).

When healthcare providers carry stigma towards individuals with drug dependencies, it can profoundly affect their willingness to assess or treat patients for substance abuse. This bias can also influence their approach to patients and may ultimately prevent individuals struggling with addiction from seeking healthcare altogether.

ACA and Addiction Treatment Access

To better support individuals with substance use disorders, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) includes significant benefits for addiction treatment. Individuals with Medicaid or those who purchase plans through health exchanges are eligible for various treatment services, including psychotherapy and counseling.

While plans vary—with some having limits on covered days or visits, deductible/copayment coverage, and authorization requirements—the ACA has expanded access to care for more Americans than ever before. However, due to persistent social factors like stigma, whether individuals actually gain access to treatment remains a critical public health issue.

Addiction Treatment in the Criminal Justice System

The challenge of access to treatment extends significantly into the criminal justice system. A study by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) revealed that among the 2.3 million people incarcerated in the United States, over 65% met the criteria for a substance use disorder, yet only 11% of these individuals received treatment (CASA, 2010).