For the more than 20 million Americans who battle substance
abuse disorder (SUD), the pandemic has been a tornado, shattering sources of help
and hope from their path. Since March, alcohol sales have risen over 25 percent.
The use of illegal fentanyl, meth, and cocaine has escalated. And health
systems across the country have reported an increase in drug overdoses. Experts
say the following factors are to blame:
Stress over money. Financial uncertainty has affected everyone,
not just substance abusers. But drugs affect the central nervous systems of
people with SUD, eroding their ability to cope with stress.
Social isolation. Loneliness is a curse for people with
SUD. Without access to friends or family members, they have been overdosing
alone with no one to call for help.
Lack of care. Many addiction centers have had to close
their doors or limit services, leaving patients with nowhere to turn for
treatment.
Loss of support groups. People with SUD need connection
with others who have recovered or who are in recovery. But many groups have
stopped meeting because of social distancing.
Thankfully, federal and state governments have taken steps
to address the opioid epidemic amid COVID-19. Healthcare providers today have
options they can offer their patients with SUD. Here's a look at two critical
changes in care delivery and how you can help.
Telehealth services. Make sure the people in your
community know about your telehealth services. People with SUD can benefit by meeting
online with providers, addiction counselors, or support groups.
Relaxed prescription restrictions. New regulations
have made it easier for people in recovery to get helpful drugs like methadone
and naltrexone. For instance, some patients can now get 30-day doses instead of
the usual 15-day quantity.
As the pandemic and opioid epidemic continue to collide, remember your patients with substance abuse issues. Make it easy for them to get the help they need and to get it quickly. As healthcare marketers, let's work together to keep your community educated and informed in the fight against opioid addiction.