healthliberal
Opioid Progress at Risk: What's Next?
USAThursday, August 28, 2025
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A Win at Risk
The U.S. has seen a drop in overdose deaths, a win worth celebrating. But this progress is at risk. A new law could take health insurance away from millions, including many with opioid addiction.
- Medicaid's Role: Covers nearly half of non-elderly adults battling opioid addiction.
- Treatment Access: Without it, treatment becomes harder to access.
Life Expectancy and the Opioid Crisis
Life expectancy in the U.S. has been stagnant, partly due to opioids.
- 1980s: The U.S. was on par with other rich countries.
- Today: It's last. No other wealthy nation saw such a spike in overdoses in the 2000s.
- Potential Impact: This law could make things worse.
The Law's Implications
The law's cuts to Medicaid pay for lower taxes for the wealthy. But who will pay the price?
- Medical Conditions: Those with medical conditions, especially addicts.
- Research Findings: Over 150,000 Americans could lose access to opioid treatment.
- Potential Outcome: This could lead to more relapses.
A Step Backward
The U.S. has made strides in fighting opioid addiction. But this law threatens that progress. It's a step backward in a fight that's far from over.
- The Question: Will leaders step up and fix this?
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