Patient volume increased with private equity, but quality of care went down

Key Points

• To examine the relationship between private equity acquisition and changes in patient volume and care quality in SUD treatment facilities.
• Analysis of patient volume trends before and after private equity acquisition.
• Assessment of quality of care metrics associated with buprenorphine prescriptions.
• Comparative evaluation of treatment outcomes in acquired vs. non-acquired facilities.
• Increased patient volume was observed with private equity ownership in SUD treatment facilities.
• Quality of care decreased significantly, particularly in buprenorphine prescription management.
• Concerns about care standards emerged due to rapid patient influx.