In Many States, Obamacare Opposition Leaves Those Struggling With Addiction Languishing On Waiting Lists
In the 19 states that haven't expanded Medicaid through the health law, poor patients aren't getting the help they need. "The best way to get treatment if you’re addicted to drugs in Missouri is to get pregnant,” said Dr. Joe Parks, director of that state’s Medicaid program.
Los Angeles Times:
Fighting Obamacare, Many Red States Find Fewer Tools To Fight Opioid Addiction Epidemic
Even as they race to control a spiraling heroin and prescription opioid crisis, doctors, public health officials and community leaders in many states are struggling to get care to addiction patients because of persistent opposition to the Affordable Care Act from local political leaders. As a result, thousands of poor patients are languishing on waiting lists for recovery programs or are unable to get medicine to combat addiction because they can’t afford prescriptions, according to health officials nationwide. Most states expanded their Medicaid programs through the health law, often called Obamacare, giving poor adults in those states health insurance and a way to pay for addiction treatment. (Levey, 6/13)