About two-thirds of mental health and substance use disorder treatment facilities, also known as “mixed” facilities, accepted older patients through Medicare, compared to 44% of SUD treatment-only facilities, creating access challenges for those who rely on the program, according to a March brief from the HHS’ Office of Behavioral Health, Disability and Aging Policy.
The analysis, “Availability of Care for Older Adults in Outpatient Behavioral Health Facilities,” drew on multiple data sources, including a review of existing literature, 2023 National Substance Use and Mental Health Services Survey data and interviews with federal behavioral health experts, according to the brief.
Here are six things to know:
- In 2023, 97% of sampled SUD treatment facilities, 81% of mental health facilities and 96% of mixed facilities accepted older adults.
- Only 33% of SUD treatment facilities, 35% of mental health facilities and 46% of mixed facilities offered programs specifically designed for older adults.
- More than 35% of Medicare beneficiaries age 65 and older had a behavioral health condition or used related services, yet older adults are 40% less likely to receive treatment than younger adults.
- Among facilities offering programs for co-occurring mental health conditions and SUD, 58% of SUD treatment facilities, 57% of mental health facilities and 58% of mixed facilities also offered tailored programs for older adults.
- Private for-profit facilities were more likely to offer tailored programs, including 55% of mixed facilities, 42% of mental health facilities and 34% of SUD treatment facilities.
- Consulted experts cited multiple drivers influencing outpatient access of behavioral health services: at the system level, workforce shortages, transportation barriers and policy; at the clinical level, telehealth readiness, service integration or co-location and appointment design; and at the individual level, stigma and “the need for strength-based messaging.”
At the Becker's Fall Behavioral Health Summit, taking place November 4–5 in Chicago, behavioral health leaders and executives will explore strategies for expanding access to care, integrating services, addressing workforce challenges and leveraging innovation to improve outcomes across the behavioral health continuum. Apply for complimentary registration now.
