The AUD Problem
Alcohol use disorder is the most common substance use disorder in the US — affecting 6–8% of the workforce. Despite its prevalence, AUD is significantly underrecognized and undertreated. Many employees with AUD are high-functioning — they maintain their jobs and social relationships while their health and productivity deteriorate. AUD generates $250 billion in annual costs to US employers through healthcare, absenteeism, and reduced productivity.
SBIRT: Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment
SBIRT is a brief, evidence-based intervention for alcohol use disorder. A healthcare provider screens the patient for alcohol use, provides a brief motivational intervention for at-risk drinkers, and refers those with AUD to treatment. SBIRT reduces alcohol use by 20–30% in at-risk drinkers and is covered by most health plans as a preventive service.
FDA-Approved AUD Medications
IQ Insight
FDA-approved medications for AUD — naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram — are highly effective but dramatically underutilized. Only 8% of people with AUD receive medication treatment. Naltrexone reduces alcohol use by 50% and reduces relapse rates by 36%. Plans that cover AUD medications without prior authorization barriers and that actively promote their availability can significantly improve AUD treatment rates.