The economic impact of opioid addiction

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to aid employers and HR professionals in addressing the opioid epidemic, by examining the economic burden of addiction and its impact on the workplace, and it presents solutions based on a clinical approach to treatment and prevention of substance abuse. Design/methodology/approach The paper undertakes a review of current opioid addiction statistics provided by various professional organizations and the US government to assess the scope of opioid addiction and its effects on the US economy. Solutions to the growing issue of addiction are based on the author’s clinical experience within the pharmacy benefits space. Findings Opioid addiction costs employers an estimated $18bn annually and incurred $1tn in expenses overall in the US between the years 2001 and 2017. These figures account for factors such as medical expenses, lost productivity and loss of life. The opioid crisis has led to a significant decline in workforce participation (20 per cent among men and 25 per cent among women), making it difficult for employers to find and keep qualified workers. Originality/value In this article, the author discusses means by which employers and HR professionals can protect and retain employees in the face of a national epidemic of addiction to prescription opioids. Solutions encompass not only how to identify and address existing substance abuse, but how to prevent addiction through employee education and close clinical coordination with partners such as an organization’s pharmacy benefits manager.