Today, August 31, 2026, is International Overdose Awareness Day—a time to remember those lost to overdose, support people affected by substance use, and strengthen our collective commitment to prevention, treatment, and recovery. In recognition of this day, we are releasing this new report today.
Health plans spend $3.64 on acute stabilization and short-cycle services for every $1 spent on services that support sustained recovery in SUD.
That is the central finding of a new joint analysis from Sober Sidekick and Wakely Consulting Group, an HMA Company.
The brief examined:
• $569 million in allowed costs
• Approximately 150,000 ACA marketplace lives
• Benefit year 2023 claims
• 200 HCPCS codes classified across a recovery value spectrum
The analysis found that 51.5% of spending went to acute stabilization and short-cycle services, while 14.1% went to sustained recovery services. ED care represented the largest single concentration of spending at $127.9 million.
These services save lives. The opportunity is what happens next: connecting members to MAT, case management, psychotherapy, peer support, and ongoing recovery engagement before another crisis occurs.
The brief estimates an opportunity of approximately $2,071 per member if spending shifts toward recovery sustaining services. That figure is a planning estimate sensitive to local conditions—not a guaranteed savings projection.
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