How to Get Help? Call us toll free at 855-659-2310
How to Get Help? Call us toll free at 855-659-2310
Outpatient treatment is a continuous need in New Jersey. The most readily available data from the New Jersey Department of Human Services (2021-22)1 and the 2023-24 New Jersey Substance Abuse Monitoring System (NJSAMS)2 results explore the basis of addiction trends in the state.
This information on outpatient treatment provides an accessible overview of the recovery space.
Regarding traditional outpatient admissions, July 2023 until March 2024 show 20.9% admissions, while 2022 data highlights 19%. In 2023-24, New Jersey faced a formidable challenge in substance abuse. This includes 55,691 total treatment admissions and 54,635 discharges. It’s clear there’s a need for adequate care and prevention measures.
Most individuals seeking treatment were male (38,950 admissions, 69.9%). There’s representation across various age groups, particularly those aged 35-44 years (29.7%). A substantial number of individuals were not in the labor force (27,322 admissions, 49.1%). The majority were living independently (37,383 admissions, 67.1%).
Most admissions were in counties like Essex (5,282 admissions, 9.5%) and Atlantic (4,965 admissions, 8.9%).
Outpatient treatment includes various evidence-based therapies. These aim to address mental health and substance use disorders (SUDs). Most programs, like The Hope Institute’s, leverage traditional and innovative practices’ merits.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are widely used. These target negative thought patterns and behaviors. Individuals learn to adopt healthy habits to avoid these patterns.
Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are increasingly effective. Practices like meditation and yoga help reduce anxiety and improve general well-being.
✅ Child Protection/Child Welfare Program: 3,442 (4%)
✅ Driving Under the Influence: 9,162 (11%)
✅ Early Intervention: 278
✅ Interim Services: 19
✅ Developmental Disability: 271
✅ Blind and Visually Impaired: 149
✅ Deaf and Hard of Hearing: 143
This indicates a smaller prevalence when it comes to individuals with special circumstances. However, it also shows the need for curated treatment programs that consider special needs.
While outpatient treatment offers many benefits, access can be challenging for some. In the 2023-24 NJSAMS results, there were the following disparities for discharges:
38,053 male (69.6%) and 16,531 female (30.3%)
Mostly White (57.4%), followed by Black (25.9%), Hispanic (15.7%), and other (1.4%)
35-44 years (30%) was the largest, followed by 45-54 years (18.9%), and 55+ (17.1%)
Outpatient treatment can help with mental health and addiction-influenced chronic disorders. At The Hope Institute, for instance, we treat a variety of substances and dual-diagnosis conditions.
In the 2021-22 dataset, 46% of clients achieved their goal of improving their psychological/mental health.4 This indicates a large positive correlation between outpatient care and mental well-being.
Anxiety and Depression: Outpatient treatment is a major source of care. As a contextual example, depression rates in New Jersey decreased from 17.5% in 2021 to 14.6% in 2022.5
Eating Disorders: These disorders are linked to mental health concerns, which can lead to substance abuse. This makes outpatient care for eating disorders vital. Treatment can include therapy and relapse prevention skills.
Many lifelong medical battles can lead to substance abuse. For instance, those who require chronic prescription painkillers can develop an addiction. Outpatient treatment is a holistic avenue to help make long-term illnesses more manageable.
Regular therapy in outpatient care can help with illnesses like diabetes or heart disease. It can offer individuals healthy coping skills to adhere to treatment plans. Similarly, outpatient care can provide educational workshops on diseases related to substance abuse. This provides individuals with a better understanding of medication management and contributing factors.
The cost of outpatient treatment can be a make-or-break factor for those seeking care.
High deductibles can impact affordability. In 2023-24, the majority (71.1%) of admitted clients had Medicaid upon admission. Private insurance (17.5%) came in second with drastically fewer clients.
Financial assistance programs can improve access to care. This is crucial since, in 2023-24, 12.7% of clients had no insurance at the admission stage.
Innovative delivery models, like virtual care, can help reduce overall costs.
Because of the need for outpatient services, payment options must be viable and sustainable. Some potential solutions include:
State-subsidized and public-private partnerships can improve access. This helps ensure more individuals receive the care they need.
If new practices add costs, payment plans should be in place. Moreover, the 49.1% of individuals out of the labor force highlights a socioeconomic hurdle to outpatient programs.
Telehealth revolutionizes accessibility in outpatient treatment. This is because of its impact on costs and reach. It allows clients to receive quality care from the comfort of home while maintaining connection with their support team. At Hope Recovery, we believe healing should be flexible, accessible, and within reach for everyone.
Individuals in remote areas can still receive online outpatient care. Telehealth services also benefit those with limited transport.
Scheduling appointments can be more flexible. This allows individuals to take part from the comfort of their homes. It also facilitates more client freedom to maintain other life obligations.
Virtual outpatient treatment must protect sensitive patient data. Both clients and OP providers should ensure their devices are private and updated with security software.
Not all clients have access to computers or reliable internet connections. This highlights an area to improve on in the telehealth space. This is especially true since 16.3% of those in treatment between 2023-24 were homeless.
Since telehealth and traditional care have ups and downs, it’s best to combine them. This promotes flexibility and strengthens the quality of care. Blended care can improve patient-centered approaches in the following ways:
Schedule initial consultations and solo therapy sessions with technology. For example, online consultation forms.
For shorter sessions, like medication reviews, telehealth consultations can be used.
Beyond the telehealth space, there are technological advancements that could improve outpatient treatment.
Research into VR for exposure therapy and anxiety treatment is promising.6 It allows a safely controlled environment for clients to confront their triggers.
Chatbots can offer preliminary screenings and psychoeducation. AI can connect clients with appropriate resources, which can help reduce wait times and improve access.
Tailoring treatment based on biomarkers can lead to more effective interventions.
Policy changes can help address workforce shortages and ensure equal access to new outpatient treatments. This includes further education for existing medical staff. Moreover, policies should promote insurance coverage for advancing options, like telehealth. Keeping up to date with industry changes can help ensure reach is optimal.
Outpatient treatment programs offer a flexible approach to addiction recovery. They range from intensive options like Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) to standard outpatient care.
Outpatient rehab programs provide addiction treatment services without requiring in-facility, overnight stays. Whether done in the daytime or virtually, clients still receive effective care.
Outpatient care comes in various levels to meet individual needs. Clients at differing stages of recovery can benefit from flexible approaches. At The Hope Institute, treatment programs range from detox to aftercare.
PCPs offer several hours of treatment most days of the week. They can be great for individuals who need a high level of structure but don’t require inpatient care.
IOPs provide therapy sessions for several hours, multiple times a week. They allow clients to maintain other life obligations.
Regular therapy sessions occur once or twice a week. Although flexible, these programs ask for higher self-motivation.
When seeking the right outpatient program, you or your loved one should consider various factors. This ranges from accreditation to program offerings. Ultimately, the outpatient treatment program you choose should address all your treatment needs. Some tips include:
Search your insurance provider’s directory to find in-network centers.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has a national helpline [1-800-662-HELP (4357)].
Direct contact allows you to ask about specifics.
Research can guide you or your loved one to comprehensive addiction treatment providers, like The Hope Institute. Individuals in New Jersey can take a confident first step toward lasting substance abuse recovery. Knowledge and sobriety are at your fingertips.
We are here to provide an expert level of compassionate care to those suffering from addiction, to inspire meaningful life changes, and create everlasting hope in the once hopeless.
