It has been argued that individuals who have allowed themselves to fall into addiction should take responsibility for their own treatment, including paying for it. Others have argued that the companies who develop opioids should be held at least partially responsible for their addictive products. Still others have made the argument that people who cannot pay for their treatment, or who would be financially ruined by addiction treatment, should be able to rely on the government to provide them with treatment.
- Who should pay the cost of treatment for opioid addiction and why? Share why you have taken this stand as well as any concerns or misgivings you might have. This is a difficult question that is emotionally laden for many. Misgivings are natural.
Application Question:
The Opioid Crisis: Paying for Intervention and Prevention
First, think about a governmental payer of your choosing and private health insurers. Then, share a brief critique of their response to the opioid crisis specific to funding interventions.
- What role does each play in funding addictions treatment, particularly opioid treatment? What gaps do you see (e.g. do you see evidence of funding for prevention or limits in inpatient, detox, other treatments)?
- Knowing what you now know through this module’s materials, the discussions so far, and any of your own experiences, what would you see as an ideal approach to funding opioid addiction treatment? Here are a few guiding questions. Pick a couple that resonate for you. Consider the potential for cooperation between government and private insurers, pharmaceutical companies, and perhaps other stakeholders in providing opioid addiction treatment. What should be their respective roles and responsibilities? How about the responsibilities of individuals who are addicted to opioids? How does this differ from the current state?
This is a big question, so focus in on your areas of interest. Keep it conversational.
Optional:
Play the Spent GameLinks to an external site..
What is your takeaway from playing Spent? Did the game resonate with any personal experiences you have had in your own life, or with family or friends? How about professional experiences within your organization serving people with limited financial means? Share your impressions with classmates who also completed the Spent game.