In recent years, states and the federal government have become interested in in identifying policies to reduce the number of people misusing and abusing prescription opioids. Although research is limited, available data suggest that Medicaid enrollees are particularly affected—Medicaid paid for over 34 million opioid claims in 2012, with 15 percent of Medicaid enrollees having at least one opioid prescription.
This presentation describes the impact of the opioid epidemic on the Medicaid program, looking at claims data for insight into the use of prescription opioids. It also reviews state substance abuse treatment policies, and policies that address misuse of prescription opioids.