New data show 96% opioid abstinence rates among long-term patients, even as New Mexico is one of only a handful of states where overdose deaths rose in 2025.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Sept. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Ideal Option, a national leader in outpatient medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for addiction to opioids, stimulants and other substances, has released its 2025 Annual Outcomes Report for New Mexico patients. The report aggregates data from over 750 New Mexico patients in 2025, detailing geographic and demographic profiles, treatment stages, medication adherence, and substance use trends based on lab specimens.
The report arrives as New Mexico's overdose crisis takes an unwelcome turn. According to federal data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in January, New Mexico was one of only a handful of states where overdose deaths rose rather than fell in 2025, with deaths up roughly 4% in the 12-month period ending in August, even as the national death count continued its steepest decline in decades. New Mexico Department of Health data show overdose-related emergency room visits following the same pattern — reversing a multi-year downward trend to reach 1,485 visits in the first three quarters of 2025 alone.
The increase has been especially acute in northern New Mexico. A report released this month by State Auditor Joseph Maestas found overdose deaths climbed 48% in Rio Arriba County, 104% in Santa Fe County and 340% in Taos County during the first half of 2025, with most of those overdoses tied to fentanyl.
Key findings in the Ideal Option report highlight the success of office-based MAT, with 96% of patients in long-term recovery achieving sustained abstinence from opioids. For New Mexico patients progressing from treatment initiation to maintenance in 2025, the report shows:
- 99% reduction in fentanyl use
- 88% reduction in methamphetamine use
"New Mexico is facing a uniquely difficult moment. Even as overdose deaths are falling across most of the country, the state is moving in the wrong direction," said Tim Kilgallon, CEO of Ideal Option. "This report shows that when patients have consistent access to evidence-based, medication-assisted treatment, recovery is not only possible — it is measurable and sustained. That kind of access is exactly what New Mexico needs more of right now."
Since 2019, Ideal Option has partnered with correctional facilities to provide care to justice-involved individuals with substance use disorder. In 2025, the organization received referrals from three correctional facilities in New Mexico, supporting continuity of care for individuals upon release.
View the full Ideal Option 2025 Annual Patient Outcomes Report for New Mexico here: www.idealoption.com/patient-outcomes.
Ideal Option has helped more than 100,000 patients through a network of over 80 outpatient clinics across 9 states: Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon and Washington.
With no waitlists and most forms of insurance accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid, patients can typically get started on treatment for fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, alcohol or other substances within 1-3 business days.
Patients can make an appointment by calling 1.877.522.1275 or visiting www.idealoption.com.
About Ideal Option
Headquartered in Renton, Washington, Ideal Option was founded in 2012 and has since helped more than 100,000 patients through a network of 80+ office-based medication-assisted treatment (MAT) clinics across nine states. Ideal Option has received The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval®, demonstrating compliance with its exacting performance standards for safety and quality of patient care. With a mission to serve underserved communities, Ideal Option accepts all forms of insurance including Medicaid and Medicare. Financial assistance and payment plans are also available.
Ideal Option's team of medical providers carry certifications in Addiction and Emergency Medicine, Internal, and Family Medicine, among other specialties. The company also employs social workers, case workers, counselors and mental health practitioners. This holistic approach helps drive positive outcomes, including family stability, stable housing, improved overall health and reduced rates of recidivism.
In all the communities it serves, Ideal Option collaborates with existing stakeholders and providers to improve the continuum of care. This approach includes partnerships with emergency rooms and county jail systems, where individuals with substance use disorder often appear, as well as collaborating with numerous support agencies and municipal programs addressing social needs such as housing, mental health and nutrition support.
Media Contact
Olivia Roe, Ideal Option, 1 5095055191, [email protected], www.idealoption.com
SOURCE Ideal Option
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