Drug overdose deaths dropped by nearly 27% in 2024, falling to approximately 80,391 deaths—the lowest level since 2019, according to CDC data.
While the nation sees broad improvements in overdose mortality, a closer examination of treatment outcomes reveals variation in effectiveness across providers. One Journal of Addictive Diseases study found that treatment retention rates range from 3% to 88% at six months across different medication-assisted treatment programs.
Acadia Healthcare’s affiliated network of approximately 165 comprehensive treatment centers, which spans over 30 states and covers more than 72,500 patients daily, helps to support individuals dealing with Opioid Use Disorders. . The clinics aim to provide a data-driven approach to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) that combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapy and support services for opioid use disorder.
Predictive Analytics and Treatment Decisions
Central to the approach provided by the affiliated network of Comprehensive Treatment Centers at Acadia Healthcare are data-driven protocols and predictive analytics to optimize treatment pathways. Dr. Stephanie Eken, Chief Medical Officer, and Dr. Navdeep Kang, Chief Quality Officer for Inpatient Services, outlined the company’s clinical technology investments in a 2024 article.
“We are deploying predictive analytics into our care model,” they wrote. “We are setting higher expectations for patient and staff safety while striving to deliver the highest quality outcomes in the industry through the accelerated implementation of EMRs, patient and employee safety solutions, deep industry training and uniform process improvements nationwide.”
Each CTC facility maintains electronic medical records that allow clinicians to track patient progress and adjust treatment protocols based on emerging patterns. The technology infrastructure represents part of Acadia’s $100 million investment in clinical technology systems completed between 2022 and 2024.
Quality Metrics and Industry Standards
Independent accreditation results provide a window into the facilities’ treatment quality. The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) International evaluates opioid treatment programs across 13 quality dimensions, including health and safety protocols, accessibility, strategic planning, and clinical outcomes. Acadia’s affiliated facilities scored in the 99th percentile across all measured categories.
“Our long-term commitment to helping communities provide high-quality, effective treatment for illicit opioid use creates positive outcomes for patients through our proven care model, which prioritizes personalized treatment strategies,” said Jacob Cooper, CTC Group President, at the opening of a new facility in Delavan, Wisconsin. “At Acadia, we strongly believe that every patient who struggles with OUD should be able to access and stay in long-term recovery, and that treatment options should be individualized to the patient.”
Comprehensive Treatment Model
Acadia’s affiliated CTCs implement an approach that extends beyond medication management to help address multiple contributing factors to opioid use disorder. Each facility can provide medical care, individual and group therapy, and peer support programs designed to address the myriad of individual-specific factors underlying addiction.
Successful recovery often requires addressing co-occurring mental health conditions, trauma history, and social circumstances that contribute to substance use. CTCs may employ psychiatric providers, licensed counselors, and social workers who collaborate on individualized treatment plans.
Medication options include methadone, buprenorphine, Suboxone, and Vivitrol, with selection based on patient-specific factors. Treatment includes both individual and group therapy sessions.
The clinics help address access barriers through scheduling flexibility. A centralized patient engagement team facilitates admissions and can coordinate care transitions. Most facilities provide same-day or next-day admission for new patients seeking treatment.
Treatment Demand
Meeting increasing demand for opioid use disorder services has required significant expansion of treatment access. In 2024, Acadia Healthcare opened 14 new comprehensive treatment centers. and acquired additional facilities in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.
CEO Chris Hunter noted that only 10% of the estimated 9 million Americans with opioid use disorder currently receive medication-assisted treatment.
“We will continue to expand this important area, as we see record demand for our CTC services,” Hunter said during a May 2024 investor call.
The expansion includes brick-and-mortar facilities, mobile treatment units, and telehealth capabilities to reach patients in underserved areas. Mobile vans provide medication dispensing and counseling services in rural communities where fixed facilities may not be economically viable. Acadia Healthcare’s affiliated network now operates the largest opioid treatment program network in several states.
