Disparities in the treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) highlight a troubling trend within the U.S. healthcare system, particularly affecting minority communities. Research indicates that Black veterans are significantly less likely to receive pharmacotherapy for AUD compared to their White counterparts, despite being more frequently identified as needing interventions. This gap raises critical questions about systemic biases that permeate healthcare access.
Examining the data from over 400,000 participants in the All of Us Research Program reveals that nearly 70% of individuals with AUD have never sought treatment. Among those who did, only a fraction received pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy. Alarmingly, Black and Hispanic individuals diagnosed with AUD are about 25% less likely to receive FDA-approved medications than non-Hispanic Whites, illustrating a stark inequity in treatment options available based on race.
Moreover, the Veterans Health Administration offers a successful model for AUD care, providing a comprehensive approach that includes regular screenings and treatment guidelines. Yet, disparities persist within this system, particularly in medication access for Black veterans. With lower-income individuals also facing significant barriers to treatment, the compounding effects of socioeconomic disadvantage and racism exacerbate health outcomes.
As the ongoing dialogue around healthcare reform continues, addressing these disparities is essential in ensuring that equitable treatment for all individuals with AUD becomes a reality, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for many in marginalized communities.
See “Addressing Disparities in Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment: A Call to Action” (November 1, 2024)
