The High Cost of Opioid Use Disorder: Nearly $700,000 Per Case
- Laurie Gouley
- Nov 1
- 2 min read
Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is not only a public health crisis but also a significant economic burden. Recent analyses reveal that each case of OUD costs nearly $700,000, encompassing healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and criminal justice costs.
Understanding the Economic Impact
A 2024 analysis by Avalere Health, shared with Axios, estimates the average cost of OUD per individual at approximately $700,000.
This figure includes:
Lost Productivity: Individuals with OUD often face unemployment or underemployment, leading to decreased economic output.
Healthcare Expenses: Chronic health issues and overdose treatments contribute to rising medical costs.
Criminal Justice Costs: Involvement in drug-related crimes increases law enforcement and legal system expenditures.
These costs vary by state, with estimates ranging from $419,527 in Idaho to over $2.4 million in Washington, D.C.
The Scope of the Crisis
OUD affects more than 6 million Americans, leading to significant societal and economic challenges. In 2024, Massachusetts alone faced an economic burden of nearly $145 billion due to the opioid crisis. This includes healthcare costs, lost wages, and expenses related to the judicial system.
Treatment as a Cost-Effective Solution
Investing in treatment can substantially reduce the economic impact of OUD. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and behavioral therapies can decrease costs by over 40%. However, access remains limited; in 2022, only 25% of adults needing MAT received it.
Positive Trends and Ongoing Challenges
There are signs of progress. Overdose deaths in the U.S. fell to the lowest level since 2019, with 80,391 deaths in 2024—a nearly 27% decrease from the previous year. This decline is partly attributed to increased availability of naloxone, an overdose reversal drug.
Despite these improvements, the economic and human toll of OUD remains high. Comprehensive strategies, including prevention, treatment, and recovery support, are essential to address this multifaceted crisis.
Conclusion
The nearly $700,000 cost per OUD case underscores the urgency of addressing the opioid crisis through effective treatment and prevention strategies. By investing in comprehensive care and expanding access to treatment, we can alleviate both the human suffering and economic burden associated with OUD.
For more information and resources on opioid use disorder and recovery support, visit ARCNH.org.
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