People seeking treatment for fentanyl addiction in Williamson County can face high costs, insurance barriers and a shortage of providers, local officials and treatment leaders say. The concerns come as the county sheriff’s office reports fewer overdoses involving counterfeit blue M30 pills but increased distribution of fentanyl powder. The sheriff’s office said fentanyl remains a serious local threat and that affordable rehabilitation is difficult to access for some residents. Earlier in October, deputies responded to a suspected fentanyl overdose death involving a 37-year-old man on Effingham Street in the Austin area. Jordan Neumann, a board member of Texas Against Fentanyl, said longer stays in structured treatment can support recovery by giving people time away from circumstances connected to substance use. But some people seeking help are turned away because their insurance does not cover a program, he said. Neumann urged people who cannot afford treatment to keep looking, noting that state-funded facilities and scholarship programs may be options. “Addiction is treatable and recovery is possible,” he said. Bluebonnet Trails Community Services provides outpatient care in Williamson County and helps connect people with state-funded detox and residential programs. CEO Mike Maples said the region has resources, but too few providers make access difficult. Finding a residential bed can be particularly challenging; openings may be outside the area, and people may have to wait as facilities serve applicants from across Texas. Bluebonnet Trails also works with Williamson County emergency medical services to connect people who have overdosed, and their families, with follow-up support and treatment referrals. Maples called that connection an important part of helping people enter treatment. The sheriff’s office said its Organized Crime Unit investigates drug-trafficking networks and encouraged residents to report suspected drug activity by calling its tipline at 512-943-1170. Anyone witnessing or experiencing a suspected overdose should call 911.