The Cost of Running a Methadone Program
February 24, 2012
The
results of a NIDA-funded study prepared by RTI
International in Research Triangle Park, NC were just
released. The study sought to determine the approximate annual
cost, per client, of providing a quality methadone treatment
program.
The study was completed in close association with Alcohol and Drug Services who operated three methadone clinics in Greensboro, High Point, and Burlington, North Carolina. Estimating the costs to operate an opioid treatment program is a difficult undertaking with many variables which must be accurately factored into a comprehensive analysis.
Some of the variables include: numerous monthly facility-related fees (lease, utilities, cleaning & maintenance), staff salaries, medication, medical equipment, urinalysis testing & lab fees, office equipment (phones, computers, copiers), educational materials and media devices, marketing & promotion, administrative & accounting costs, accreditation fees, medical records, and many other miscellaneous costs. The client census for any opioid treatment program also factors heavily into the clinic's financial viability as ...
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