Economic considerations for the treatment of opioid and alcohol dependence: a managed care perspective.

: This supplement to The American Journal of Managed Care reports the results of several studies analyzing the economic impact of treating opioid or alcohol dependence. While there is a clear need to address and treat substance abuse, effective management with limited resources is a common challenge for managed care professionals and individual practitioners. The information in this supplement may help those who are charged with administering benefit design or disease management programs identify treatment options that can improve outcomes and reduce costs.