PHILADELPHIA, PA — Gaudenzia, Inc. has released its 2024 FrontLine Report, offering a comprehensive look at substance use disorder (SUD) trends across the Mid-Atlantic region. The report, presented at a recent news conference in Philadelphia, showcases the organization’s commitment to expanding treatment accessibility and highlights emerging trends in SUD care across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and Washington, D.C.
Key findings from the report reveal a 5% increase in treatment admissions, totaling 15,855 in the fiscal year 2024. Notably, there has been a 3% rise in admissions among adults aged 55 and older, contributing to an 8% increase since fiscal year 2022. The report also points out that 70.3% of individuals assessed reported a past mental health diagnosis, while alcohol and opioid use disorders remain the leading diagnoses at 31% each.
“Our 2024 FrontLine report provides valuable insights into local SUD trends and underscores the urgent need to improve access to lifesaving treatments,” said Dr. Deja Gilbert, President and CEO of Gaudenzia. “Collaborating with communities, policymakers, and partners is essential to creating more treatment avenues and providing evidence-based care that can transform lives.”
Despite increased admissions, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that over 94% of adults with SUD did not receive or seek treatment in 2023. Dr. Gilbert emphasized the importance of understanding barriers to care, such as transportation, treatment options, and financial constraints.
Gaudenzia continues to prioritize access to evidence-based care, focusing on women and families through programs like the Claymont Center for Pregnant and Parenting Women. The report highlights racial disparities in access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT), with white clients receiving prescriptions at more than twice the rate of Black patients following a SUD-related emergency.
The organization is also addressing the needs of older adults, reflecting a national trend of rising overdose deaths among those over 65. Gaudenzia is advocating for Medicare reforms to expand SUD treatment coverage and improve access to community-based settings.
Polysubstance use remains prevalent, with 45% of individuals reporting a secondary stimulant use disorder. Gaudenzia is expanding its use of the Matrix Model, an approach integrating multiple evidence-based therapies to treat stimulant use disorders.
Stable housing is recognized as a critical component of recovery, with Gaudenzia serving 2,813 individuals through various housing programs in fiscal year 2024. The report details the diverse demographics served by Gaudenzia, with 44% of admissions being white, 42% Black/African American, 6% Hispanic, and 6% Multiracial.
As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 107,543 drug overdose deaths in 2023, Gaudenzia’s FrontLine Report underscores the importance of continued efforts to enhance access to treatment and support for those affected by SUD.
To access the complete FrontLine Report, visit https://gaudenzia.org/frontline-report.
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