Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-2025
Abstract
This report presents an analysis of MaineCare members diagnosed with Substance Use Disorders (SUD) from 2018 to 2023. Using MaineCare claims data, the study assesses the prevalence, demographic characteristics, service utilization, and co-occurring mental health conditions among individuals with SUD who were not receiving care in health homes. Key findings indicate a 48% increase in MaineCare members with SUD over the study period, with a marked rise in methamphetamine, opioid, and alcohol use disorders, and a decrease in cannabis use disorder. Nearly one-third of individuals had multiple SUDs, and co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression were highly prevalent. Healthcare utilization remained low for emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and primary care services, though screening and remission claims increased notably following policy changes, including MaineCare expansion and SBIRT billing authorization. These findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and healthcare providers to inform targeted interventions and support systems for SUD treatment within Maine’s Medicaid population. For more information, please contact Lindsey Smith at m.lindsey.smith@maine.edu
Recommended Citation
Smith, ML., & Gallo, R. (2025). Mainecare substance use disorder claims chartbook: Population characteristics of persons with substance use disorder 2018-2023. University of Southern Maine, Catherine Cutler Institute, Substance Use Research and Evaluation Unit.
Included in
Health Policy Commons, Policy Design, Analysis, and Evaluation Commons, Substance Abuse and Addiction Commons
Comments
This project was supported by the State of Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as part of a Cooperative Agreement with funds originating from the Federal Government. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by DHHS or the Federal Government. The Maine DHHS Office of Medicaid Services provided funding for this summary product.