I couldn’t sleep this morning and decided to Google, “Mental Health Industry Scam in NJ,” and came across an article in the Burgan Record that really made me stop and think. It was about the opioid epidemic in New Jersey, which, like much of the country, has seen a dramatic increase in opioid-related deaths over the past decade. The numbers have apparently risen from 1,096 deaths in 2012 to over 3,000 in recent years. The article pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic only made things worse, with addiction centers witnessing a big surge in demand for treatment.
The article mentioned that New Jersey’s highest overdose death toll was in 2021, reaching 3,144 lives lost. The number decreased a bit the following year, but it’s still pretty high.
They say in the article that the state of New Jersey is set to receive 1.14 billion, from settlements with drug companies, which is intended for life-saving initiatives and addiction services. The article also touched on something called patient brokering, a term I wasn’t familiar with before.
It’s a disturbing practice where individuals or even healthcare providers can exploit those seeking addiction treatment. New Jersey has a law against it, but it’s not as strong as it could be, especially when compared to states like Florida.
Reading that little tidbit got me thinking. “Could this be a more widespread issue in the mental health industry as a whole?”
It’s a chilling thought, considering the vulnerability of those seeking help. And… Yeah… This reflection hit close to home because I recently sought help for depression. The process was a bit daunting, and I probably invested way more energy in it than what I got out of it was worth; being on Medicare and Medicaid myself.
I can’t help but wonder if I encountered patient brokering along the way. It’s a troubling possibility, and it highlights the need for stronger regulations and protections for patients.
I’ve always realized the importance of being informed and vigilant. Not just for myself but for the well-being of others who are fighting their own battles with addiction and/or mental health issues.
I also realize that it’s not an easy thing to do when you’re struggling and need help. And… Personally… In my own situation… If I’d known then what I know now about people on a personal or professional level in the mental health industry and the way it’s regulated here in Sussex County NJ, “I don’t think I would have bothered reaching out at all!”