States can generate two key resources needed to improve alcohol and drug services: money and skilled practitioners. An annual public report should detail alcohol and drug related spending in all state agencies.

If additional funds are needed, states should consider raising alcohol taxes. States should also use their licensing and educational resources to improve and retain the prevention and treatment workforce.

The Iowa Plan for Behavioral Health has provided managed substance use treatment for all programs since 1999. Using a single contract, Magellan Health Services administers all programs using Medicaid funding, state mental and substance use money, and block grant treatment funds. Results include: annual Medicaid savings of $2 million and 187% increase in access to substance use treatment over the prior fee-for-service system. Do you know of other good examples of state-level action on resources? Email your stories to us.