Substance use is a serious concern in Maine, though the state has seen some of the biggest overdose death declines in the nation recently. Key figures:

• 607 overdose deaths in 2023, down from 723 in 2022.
• Overdose deaths declined nearly 16% in 2023, one of the largest declines in the nation, according to the Office of Governor Janet Mills.
• The first year-over-year decline since 2018.
• Fentanyl was present in 78% of overdose deaths.
• Overdose deaths increased from 176 in 2013 to a high of 723 in 2022.
• Fatal overdoses dropped another 20% in 2024.

Maine’s crisis escalated sharply over the past decade, from 176 deaths in 2013 to a peak of 723 in 2022. The state has since turned the corner with back-to-back declines, even as fentanyl remains involved in most deaths.

Maine expanded Medicaid in 2019 after voters approved it by ballot initiative in 2017, though implementation was delayed by the prior administration. The state’s Department of Health and Human Services administers MaineCare, which covers substance use treatment. Of the 117 facilities listed below, 109 accept Medicaid.