Characteristics of People with Apple Health and Stimulant Use Disorder Diagnosis in Washington State: Prevalence, Geographic Distribution and Healthcare Service Utilization over Five Years (Fiscal Years 2018 to 2022)

This report examines people with Apple Health medical coverage who were diagnosed with a stimulant use disorder (StimUD) between State Fiscal Years (SFY) 2018 and 2022. To support the development of effective interventions and policies to mitigate the impacts of stimulant use, this report analyzes the demographic and geographic prevalence of StimUD, as well as behavioral health diagnoses and service utilization among this population. Special attention is given to priority populations including: American Indian or Alaska Natives (AIAN); pregnant and postpartum individuals; people experiencing homelessness; and those involved with the criminal legal system. Over the five-year study period, the average prevalence of StimUD among adults with Apple Health coverage was five percent. Higher prevalence rates were observed in high-density urban centers, and among the identified priority populations. People with StimUD also experienced higher rates of behavioral health diagnoses, increased healthcare utilization, and elevated mortality compared to those with any substance use disorder.