Managed care and outpatient substance abuse treatment

Abstract

This cross-sectional explanatory study examined the impact of managed care organizations (MCOs) and how they affect the administration of services in outpatient substance abuse treatment centers. It identifies the impact of managed care on service delivery and implications for social work managers. The theoretical framework of this study is shaped by those Resource Dependence theory concepts that identify ways a focal organization manages and navigates dependence with its external environment. Data collection for analysis of outpatient substance abuse treatment programs in New York State was conducted from September 2006 to February 2007. This information provides strategic guidance to those currently working with managed care in the negotiation and delivery of care.