National SUD Treatment Month Highlights Persistent Gaps in Medicaid Behavioral Health Access

SAMHSA's designation of January as National SUD Treatment Month underscores ongoing challenges in substance use disorder treatment access and quality that directly affect Medicaid managed care plans. Despite evidence-based treatment guidelines and locator tools, significant treatment gaps persist, particularly for medication-assisted treatment for opioid and alcohol use disorders—conditions disproportionately affecting Medicaid populations. The commentary frames systemic barriers including inadequate provider networks and treatment system features that MCO compliance teams and behavioral health directors must address to improve recovery outcomes.

Behavioral Health · Managed Care

This is outside commentary from Manatt Health, not part of Medicaid Monitor's independently scored news coverage.

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