February 4, 2010

Substance Use Treatment Need among Uninsured Workers

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health published this report on February 4, 2010, concerning substance abuse and use treatment among uninsured workers. In the United States, employer-sponsored insurance is the primary source of health care coverage for persons under the age of 65. However, many low-wage jobs do not include health insurance benefits. Additionally, as health insurance premiums have increased, many employers have limited the coverage they provide. This has resulted in fewer employees choosing to enroll in coverage. Although there has been quite a lot of research on the physical health and health care needs of uninsured workers, less is known about their substance use treatment needs. Gaining a better understanding of the substance use treatment needs of uninsured workers may help prevention and treatment providers address the gap between service needs and service receipt.