Alcohol Treatment Rates Remained Low in Nevada Study

Few Medicaid patients received medication for alcohol use disorder, though behavioral health specialists prescribed more.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Substance Abuse

Isometric editorial illustration featuring a grid of pharmaceutical capsules in muted, earthy tones, representing systemic healthcare gaps. — A University of Nevada, Reno study of Medicaid data reveals low rates of evidence-based medication prescribing for alcohol use disorder patients. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should healthcare systems prioritize behavioral health training and integration for primary care providers?

Between 2016 and 2019, researchers at the University of Nevada Reno analyzed Medicaid claims data to evaluate prescribing patterns for alcohol use disorder. The study highlighted a significant gap in treatment access, finding that few patients received evidence-based medication for this condition.

Why it matters

Identifying these treatment gaps is crucial for improving patient access to care, as medication management for alcohol use disorder remains underutilized. By highlighting the role of provider specialty, this research points toward integration strategies to better support patients in Nevada.

This retrospective analysis of 7,003 clinicians found that only 8% prescribed medication for alcohol use disorder. Clinicians with a behavioral health specialty had 7.6 times higher odds of prescribing these treatments than primary care providers.

The players

University of Nevada Reno

An academic institution that conducted the retrospective analysis on Medicaid prescribing patterns.

The details

Researchers utilized logistic and zero-inflated negative binomial regressions to analyze Medicaid claims data. The mechanism of the study centered on identifying disparities in prescribing behavior based on a clinician's specialty and their previous experience with behavioral health. Findings suggest that those with specific training in behavioral health are significantly more likely to initiate medication-based treatment plans for patients struggling with alcohol dependency.

The Nevada Medicaid claims data were collected from 2016 to 2019.

Health Landscape

This research highlights the ongoing gap between the prevalence of alcohol use disorder and the integration of behavioral health and primary care in Nevada. It suggests that expanding the behavioral health workforce or training primary care clinicians could help normalize standard treatments.

If you or a loved one is managing alcohol use disorder, ask your primary care physician about available medication options or a referral to a behavioral health specialist. Discussing these evidence-based treatments is a valid and important step in developing an effective care plan.

The takeaway

Medication remains an underutilized tool for treating alcohol use disorder, particularly in primary care settings. Patients should feel empowered to ask their doctors about whether medication is an appropriate component of their specific treatment plan.