Telehealth apps that aim to help treat the nation's addiction and opioid epidemic are increasing in popularity, drawing in investor dollars, but critics wonder whether the treatments are equitable, reported Kaiser Health News March 21.
Several addiction apps offer peer support, coaching and some develop technology specifically for rehabilitation centers. Other telehealth apps are available that help connect people suffering from addiction with physicians and medication, but often they only serve those who can pay out of pocket or have coverage.
"I just worry that as we start to rely on these tech-heavy therapy options, we’re just creating a structure where we really leave behind the people who actually need the most help," Aimee Moulin, MD, a professor and behavioral health director for the Emergency Medicine Department at UC Davis Health told KHN.
David Sarabia, a tech founder and former rehabilitation patient, created a digital platform that improved paperwork for medical professionals and an app to help patients through recovery. While he eventually hopes to use his tech to reduce costs of treatment, it is currently unaffordable for most clinics.
"Bottom line, for the treatment centers that don’t have consistent revenue, those on the lower end, they will probably not be able to afford something like this," he said.