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Aalsma MC, Bell LA, Schwartz K, Ouyang F, Kolak M, Monahan PO, Mermelstein SP, Carson I, Hulvershorn LA, Adams ZW. Clinician Willingness to Prescribe Medications for Opioid Use Disorder to Adolescents in Indiana. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2435416. [PMID: 39320891 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.35416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Prescribing medications for opioid use disorders (MOUD), including buprenorphine, naltrexone, and methadone, to adolescents remains an underused evidence-based strategy for reducing harms associated with opioid use. Objective To identify potential associations between clinician- and community-level characteristics regarding clinicians' self-reported willingness to prescribe MOUD to adolescents. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study included a phone survey of Indiana clinicians and spatial analysis of community-level characteristics. Clinicians were eligible for inclusion in analyses if actively providing health care and listed on the Buprenorphine Practitioner Locator website, a publicly available national registry of clinicians possessing a waiver to legally prescribe buprenorphine (ie, waivered clinicians). Exposures Community-level characteristics, including total population, rurality or urbanicity, percentage with incomes below the federal poverty line, and racial or ethnic makeup. Main Outcomes and Measures Clinicians were asked about their willingness to prescribe MOUD to adolescents younger than 18 years if clinically indicated. Responses were recorded as no, yes, or yes with conditions. Results Among the 871 clinicians listed on the website as of July 2022, 832 were eligible for inclusion and contacted by phone. Among waivered clinicians, 759 (91.2%) reported being unwilling to prescribe MOUD to adolescents, 73 clinicians (8.8%) reported willingness to prescribe MOUD to adolescents, and only 24 (2.9%) would do so without conditions. A multivariable logistic regression model including spatially lagged community-level variables showed that, among areas with waivered clinicians, clinicians practicing in more populated areas were significantly less likely to prescribe to adolescents (β = 0.65; 95% CI, 0.49-0.87; P = .003). Similarly, those in more rural areas were significantly more likely to prescribe to adolescents (β = 1.27; 95% CI, 1.02-1.58; P = .03). Variation in clinician willingness to prescribe was not explained by other community-level characteristics. Among all waivered clinicians, advanced practice clinicians were less likely than physicians to report willingness to prescribe (β = 0.58; 95% CI, 0.35-0.97; P = .04), as were physicians without any specialty training relevant to MOUD prescribing when compared with family medicine clinicians (β = 0.40; 95% CI, 0.18-0.89; P = .03). A small subgroup of waivered clinicians had training in pediatrics (13 clinicians [1.6%]), and none were willing to prescribe MOUD to adolescents. Conclusions and Relevance From this cross-sectional study, it appears that Indiana adolescents continued to face gaps in access to MOUD treatment, despite its well-established efficacy. Programs that support primary care practitioners, including family medicine clinicians and pediatricians, in safe and appropriate use of MOUD in adolescents may bridge these gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Aalsma
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Lauren A Bell
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis
| | - Katherine Schwartz
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Fangqian Ouyang
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Marynia Kolak
- Department of Geography and Geographic Information Science, School of Earth, Society, and Environment, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana
| | - Patrick O Monahan
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, School of Medicine, Fairbanks School of Public Health, Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University, Indianapolis
| | | | - Ian Carson
- Department of Psychology, School of Science, Indiana University Indianapolis, Indianapolis
| | | | - Zachary W Adams
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
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Sitar SI, Yarbrough CR, Mataczynski MJ, Peralta AM, Kan M, Crawford ND, Kee C, Young HN, Welsh JW. Qualitative Assessment of Barriers to Buprenorphine Access: The Role of Pharmacies. Subst Use Misuse 2024:1-9. [PMID: 39155479 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2024.2392545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients continue to face challenges accessing medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) despite attempts to loosen prescribing restrictions and streamline service provision. Past research has mainly focused on potential barriers surrounding prescribing practices for buprenorphine, but has had limited investigation into the role of pharmacies. OBJECTIVE This study investigates the role of both pharmacists and pharmacies in creating or circumventing barriers to accessing buprenorphine for individuals in Georgia seeking medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). METHODS Semi-structured interviews of pharmacists across 12 access and no access pharmacies were used to create a codebook of 179 discreet statements. The (N = 12) 20-35-minute phone interviews included questions addressing substance use, pharmacy practices, treatment, harm reduction, and psychoeducation. RESULTS Pharmacists widely agreed that opioid use has caused negative effects on community members (N = 11), that buprenorphine formulation stocking decisions are made based on patient needs (N = 11), and that buprenorphine is relatively easy to stock (N = 10). Additionally, respondents generally stated that buprenorphine is a helpful tool for treating opioid use disorder (OUD) (N = 12) but some reported positive experiences while others reported challenging or negative experiences with patients receiving buprenorphine (N = 7). Finally, few (N = 4) pharmacists agreed that they could benefit from extra training despite many asserting that training is important to inform their own practice (N = 8). CONCLUSION Results from respondents generally show that training may be beneficial for pharmacists to develop an enhanced understanding of addiction and treatment. Enhanced effort to stock different formulations or dosages of buprenorphine and develop relationships with prescribers may increase community access.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Andrea M Peralta
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Mary Kan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Natalie D Crawford
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Caroline Kee
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Henry N Young
- College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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Nahian A, McFadden LM. Changes in Substance Use Diagnoses in the Great Plains during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1630. [PMID: 39201189 PMCID: PMC11353988 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12161630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
As drug overdose mortality rises in the United States, healthcare visits present critical opportunities to mitigate this trend. This study examines changes in healthcare visits for substance use disorders (SUDs) and remission prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Great Plains, with a focus on identifying the characteristics of those served. Data were analyzed from 109,671 patient visits (mode = one visit per patient), encompassing diverse demographics, including sex, age, race, ethnicity, and geographic location. Visits analyzed included those for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), or Stimulant Use Disorder (StUD) and those in remission of these disorders between March 2019 and March 2021. Patient demographic information and geographic factors, like rurality and Medicaid expansion status, were considered, and logistic regression was utilized. Visits were primarily by White (70.83%) and Native American (21.39%) patients, non-Hispanic (91.70%) patients, and males (54.16%). Various demographic, geographic, and temporal trends were observed. Findings indicated that males were more likely to receive an AUD diagnosis, while females were more likely to receive an OUD or StUD diagnosis. Metropolitan-residing patients were more likely to receive an AUD diagnosis, while non-metropolitan patients were more likely to receive an OUD diagnosis. Remission odds increased for StUD during the pandemic but decreased for AUD and OUD. These findings illuminate the demographic and geographic patterns of SUD-related healthcare visits, suggesting critical touchpoints for intervention. The results emphasize the urgent need for targeted healthcare strategies, especially in rural and underserved areas, to address persistent health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Nahian
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine at Seton Hill, Lynch Hall, 20 Seton Hill Dr, Greensburg, PA 15601, USA
| | - Lisa M. McFadden
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, University of South Dakota, 414 E. Clarke St., Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
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Knudsen HK, Walker DM, Mack N, Kinnard EN, Huerta TR, Glasgow L, Gilbert L, Garner BR, Dasgupta A, Chandler R, Walsh SL, Tin Y, Tan S, Sprunger J, Sprague-Martinez L, Salsberry P, Saucier M, Rudorf M, Rodriguez S, Oser CB, Oga E, Nakayima J, Linas BS, Lefebvre RC, Kosakowski S, Katz RE, Hunt T, Holman A, Holloway J, Goddard-Eckrich D, Fareed N, Christopher M, Aldrich A, Adams JW, Drainoni ML. Reducing perceived barriers to scaling up overdose education and naloxone distribution and medications for opioid use disorder in the United States in the HEALing (Helping End Addiction Long-Term®) communities study. Prev Med 2024; 185:108034. [PMID: 38857770 PMCID: PMC11269010 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2024.108034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scaling up overdose education and naloxone distribution (OEND) and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) is needed to reduce opioid overdose deaths, but barriers are pervasive. This study examines whether the Communities That HEAL (CTH) intervention reduced perceived barriers to expanding OEND and MOUD in healthcare/behavioral health, criminal-legal, and other/non-traditional venues. METHODS The HEALing (Helping End Addiction Long-Term®) Communities Study is a parallel, wait-list, cluster randomized trial testing the CTH intervention in 67 communities in the United States. Surveys administered to coalition members and key stakeholders measured the magnitude of perceived barriers to scaling up OEND and MOUD in November 2019-January 2020, May-June 2021, and May-June 2022. Multilevel linear mixed models compared Wave 1 (intervention) and Wave 2 (wait-list control) respondents. Interactions by rural/urban status and research site were tested. RESULTS Wave 1 respondents reported significantly greater reductions in mean scores for three outcomes: perceived barriers to scaling up OEND in Healthcare/Behavioral Health Venues (-0.26, 95% confidence interval, CI: -0.48, -0.05, p = 0.015), OEND in Other/Non-traditional Venues (-0.53, 95% CI: - 0.84, -0.22, p = 0.001) and MOUD in Other/Non-traditional Venues (-0.34, 95% CI: -0.62, -0.05, p = 0.020). There were significant interactions by research site for perceived barriers to scaling up OEND and MOUD in Criminal-Legal Venues. There were no significant interactions by rural/urban status. DISCUSSION The CTH Intervention reduced perceived barriers to scaling up OEND and MOUD in certain venues, with no difference in effectiveness between rural and urban communities. More research is needed to understand facilitators and barriers in different venues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah K Knudsen
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Ohio State University, Suite 5000, 700 Ackerman Rd, Columbus, OH 43202, USA.
| | - Daniel M Walker
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Ohio State University, Suite 5000, 700 Ackerman Rd, Columbus, OH 43202, USA.
| | - Nicole Mack
- Center for Official Statistics, RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Elizabeth N Kinnard
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Timothy R Huerta
- CATALYST, Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, 540 W. Spring St., Columbus, OH 43215, USA.
| | - LaShawn Glasgow
- Center for Program and Policy Evaluation to Advance Community Health, RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Louisa Gilbert
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, 1255 Amsterdam Ave., New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Bryan R Garner
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, 2050 Kenny Road Columbus, OH 43221, USA.
| | - Anindita Dasgupta
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, 1255 Amsterdam Ave., New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Redonna Chandler
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, 301 North Stonestreet Ave, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Sharon L Walsh
- Department of Behavioral Science and Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, 845 Angliana Avenue, Room 202, Lexington, KY 40508, USA.
| | - Yjuliana Tin
- General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 E 17th Ave Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Sylvia Tan
- Center for Clinical Research, RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Joel Sprunger
- Center for Addiction Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3131 Harvey Ave, Suite 204, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
| | | | - Pamela Salsberry
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, 1841 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Merielle Saucier
- Clinical Addiction Research and Evaluation Unit, Section of General Internal Medicine, Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Maria Rudorf
- General Internal Medicine, Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Sandra Rodriguez
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, 1255 Amsterdam Ave., New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Carrie B Oser
- Department of Sociology, Center on Drug & Alcohol Research, Center for Health Equity Transformation, University of Kentucky, 1531 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY 40506, USA.
| | - Emmanuel Oga
- Center for Public Health Surveillance and Technology, RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Julie Nakayima
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, 845 Angliana Avenue, Lexington, KY 40508, USA.
| | - Beth S Linas
- Center for Public Health Surveillance and Technology, RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - R Craig Lefebvre
- Communication Practice Area, RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Sarah Kosakowski
- General Internal Medicine, Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Rachel E Katz
- Addiction Services, Clinical & Support Options, 8 Atwood Dr Suite 201, Northampton, MA 01060, USA.
| | - Timothy Hunt
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, 1255 Amsterdam Ave., New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Ari Holman
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, 1255 Amsterdam Ave., New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - JaNae Holloway
- Center for Clinical Research, RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Dawn Goddard-Eckrich
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, 1255 Amsterdam Ave., New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Naleef Fareed
- Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, 370 W. 9th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Mia Christopher
- Center for Public Health Surveillance and Technology, RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Alison Aldrich
- CATALYST, Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking, The Ohio State University, Suite 5000, 700 Ackerman Rd, Columbus, OH 43202, USA.
| | - Joella W Adams
- Center for Public Health Surveillance and Technology, RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Mari-Lynn Drainoni
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine/Boston Medical Center, and Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Room 2014, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
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Wyse JJ, Mackey K, Kauzlarich KA, Morasco BJ, Carlson KF, Gordon AJ, Korthuis PT, Eckhardt A, Newell S, Ono SS, Lovejoy TI. Improving access to buprenorphine for rural veterans in a learning health care system. Health Serv Res 2024. [PMID: 38953536 DOI: 10.1111/1475-6773.14346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe a learning health care system research process designed to increase buprenorphine prescribing for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) in rural primary care settings within U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) treatment facilities. DATA SOURCES AND STUDY SETTING Using national administrative data from the VA Corporate Data Warehouse, we identified six rural VA health care systems that had improved their rate of buprenorphine prescribing within primary care from 2015 to 2020 (positive deviants). We conducted qualitative interviews with leaders, clinicians, and staff involved in buprenorphine prescribing within primary care from these sites to inform the design of an implementation strategy. STUDY DESIGN Qualitative interviews to inform implementation strategy development. DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded by a primary coder and secondary reviewer. Analysis utilized a mixed inductive/deductive approach. To develop an implementation strategy, we matched clinical needs identified within interviews with resources and strategies participants had utilized to address these needs in their own sites. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Interview participants (n = 30) identified key clinical needs and strategies for implementing buprenorphine in rural, primary care settings. Common suggestions included the need for clinical mentorship or a consult service, buprenorphine training, and educational resources. Building upon interview findings and in partnership with a clinical team, we developed an implementation strategy composed of an engaging case-based training, an audit and feedback process, and educational resources (e.g., Buprenorphine Frequently Asked Questions, Rural Care Model Infographic). CONCLUSIONS We describe a learning health care system research process that leveraged national administrative data, health care provider interviews, and clinical partnership to develop an implementation strategy to encourage buprenorphine prescribing in rural primary care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J Wyse
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon, USA
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Katherine Mackey
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Kim A Kauzlarich
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Benjamin J Morasco
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Kathleen F Carlson
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon, USA
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Adam J Gordon
- Informatics, Decision-Enhancement, and Analytic Sciences (IDEAS) Center, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - P Todd Korthuis
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Alison Eckhardt
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Summer Newell
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Sarah S Ono
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- VA Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Portland, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Travis I Lovejoy
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon, USA
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- VA Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Portland, Portland, Oregon, USA
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Titus-Glover D, Shaya FT, Welsh C, Roane L. The Lived Experiences of Pregnant and Parenting Women in Recovery Toward Medication Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder. SUBSTANCE USE & ADDICTION JOURNAL 2024; 45:367-377. [PMID: 38254261 DOI: 10.1177/29767342231221055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal misuse of prescription opioids and illicit drugs such as, heroin and non-pharmaceutical fentanyl analogs has increased in the last 2 decades and one in 5 women reported misuse of opioids. Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are recommended for treating pregnant women with opioid use disorder (OUD). MOUD is effective in reducing cravings and negative outcomes, yet treatment is underutilized and varies in integration and intensity of resources across health systems. Exploring perceptions of MOUD delivery among pregnant/parenting women promises to uncover and address the underlying challenges to treatment, a perspective that may be different for providers and stakeholders. Therefore, our main purpose is to elicit patients' experiences and perceptions of MOUD, associated access to treatment, and availability of supportive resources during pregnancy/postpartum to inform OUD treatment. METHODS Through a qualitative research approach we gathered data from individual interviews/focus group discussions for this pilot study. Pregnant and postpartum parenting women (n = 17) responded to questions related to perceptions of MOUD, access to treatment, and availability of social and psychosocial resources. Data were collected, transcribed, and coded (by consensus) and emerging themes were analyzed using grounded theory methodology. RESULTS Emerging themes revealed positive uptake and perceptions of MOUD, continuing gaps in knowledge, negative impact of stigmatization, and limited access to programs and resources. Supportive relationships from family, peers, healthcare providers and child welfare staff, and co-located services were perceived as positive motivators to recovery. CONCLUSIONS Through the unique lenses of women with lived experience, this study revealed several themes that can be transformative for women. Overall perceptions of MOUD were positive and likely to facilitate uptake and promote positive recovery outcomes. Bridging knowledge gaps will reduce anxieties, fears about neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and adverse maternal outcomes. Additionally, a deeper understanding of stigmatization and relationships can inform an integrated patient-centered approach to OUD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fadia T Shaya
- Department of Practice, Sciences and Health Outcomes Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christopher Welsh
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, USA
| | - Lynnee Roane
- School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Sahebi-Fakhrabad A, Sadeghi AH, Kemahlioglu-Ziya E, Handfield R. Exploring Opioid Prescription Patterns and Overdose Rates in South Carolina (2017-2021): Insights into Rising Deaths in High-Risk Areas. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1268. [PMID: 38998803 PMCID: PMC11241688 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12131268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
With opioid overdose rates on the rise, we aimed to develop a county-level risk stratification that specifically focused on access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUDs) and high overdose rates. We examined over 15 million records from the South Carolina Prescription Tracking System (SCRIPTS) across 46 counties. Additionally, we incorporated data from opioid treatment programs, healthcare professionals prescribing naltrexone, clinicians with buprenorphine waivers, and county-level overdose fatality statistics. To assess the risk of opioid misuse, we classified counties into high-risk and low-risk categories based on their prescription rates, overdose fatalities, and treatment service availability. Statistical methods employed included the two-sample t-test and linear regression. The t-test assessed the differences in per capita prescription rates between high-risk and low-risk counties. Linear regression was used to analyze the trends over time. Our study showed that between 2017 and 2021, opioid prescriptions decreased from 64,223 to 41,214 per 100,000 residents, while fentanyl-related overdose deaths increased by 312%. High-risk counties had significantly higher rates of fentanyl prescriptions and relied more on out-of-state doctors. They also exhibited higher instances of doctor shopping and had fewer medical doctors per capita, with limited access to MOUDs. To effectively combat the opioid crisis, we advocate for improved local healthcare infrastructure, broader treatment access, stricter management of out-of-state prescriptions, and vigilant tracking of prescription patterns. Tailored local strategies are essential for mitigating the opioid epidemic in these communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirreza Sahebi-Fakhrabad
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA; (A.S.-F.); (A.H.S.)
| | - Amir Hossein Sadeghi
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA; (A.S.-F.); (A.H.S.)
| | - Eda Kemahlioglu-Ziya
- Department of Business Management, Poole College of Management, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA;
| | - Robert Handfield
- Department of Business Management, Poole College of Management, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA;
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Peasley-Miklus CE, Shaw JG, Rosingana K, Smith ML, Sigmon SC, Heil SH, Jewiss J, Villanti AC, Harder VS. "I don't think that a medication is going to help someone long-term stay off opioids": Treatment and recovery beliefs of rural Vermont family members of people with opioid use disorder. J Rural Health 2024. [PMID: 38881521 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Few studies have addressed beliefs about treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) among family members of people with OUD, particularly in rural communities. This study examined the beliefs of rural family members of people with OUD regarding treatment, including medication for OUD (MOUD), and recovery. METHODS Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with rural Vermont family members of people with OUD. Twenty family members completed interviews, and data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Four primary themes related to beliefs about OUD treatment emerged: (1) MOUD is another form of addiction or dependency and should be used short-term; (2) essential OUD treatment components include residential and mental health services and a strong support network involving family; (3) readiness as a precursor to OUD treatment initiation; and (4) stigma as an impediment to OUD treatment and other health care services. CONCLUSIONS Rural family members valued mental health services and residential OUD treatment programs while raising concerns about MOUD and stigma in health care and the community. Several themes (e.g., MOUD as another form of addiction, residential treatment, and treatment readiness) were consistent with prior research. The belief that MOUD use should be short-term was inconsistent with the belief that OUD is a disease. Findings suggest a need for improved education on the effectiveness of MOUD for family members and on stigma for health care providers and community members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine E Peasley-Miklus
- University of Vermont Center on Rural Addiction, Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, Department of Psychiatry, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Julia G Shaw
- University of Vermont Center on Rural Addiction, Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, Department of Psychiatry, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Katie Rosingana
- Substance Use Research and Evaluation Unit, University of Southern Maine, Portland, Maine, USA
| | - Mary Lindsey Smith
- Substance Use Research and Evaluation Unit, University of Southern Maine, Portland, Maine, USA
| | - Stacey C Sigmon
- University of Vermont Center on Rural Addiction, Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, Department of Psychiatry, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Sarah H Heil
- University of Vermont Center on Rural Addiction, Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, Department of Psychiatry, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Jennifer Jewiss
- Department of Education, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Andrea C Villanti
- University of Vermont Center on Rural Addiction, Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, Department of Psychiatry, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
- Rutgers Institute for Nicotine & Tobacco Studies, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Health Behavior, Society & Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Valerie S Harder
- University of Vermont Center on Rural Addiction, Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, Department of Psychiatry, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
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9
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McNeely HL, Schreiber TL, Swann WL, Amura CR. Facilitators and barriers to adopting or expanding medications for opioid use disorder provision in rural Colorado jails: a qualitative analysis. HEALTH & JUSTICE 2024; 12:26. [PMID: 38842589 PMCID: PMC11155088 DOI: 10.1186/s40352-024-00280-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid use disorder (OUD) is common among individuals who are incarcerated. However, OUD treatment services are sparse in smaller county jails found in many rural areas, which limits a healthy and supportive jail environment. This study assesses the facilitators of and barriers to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) adoption or expansion in rural Colorado jails. A qualitative descriptive design was implemented during the summer of 2022 using semi-structured interviews with jail staff, sheriffs, and contracted personnel. Interview questions focused on facilitators of existing MOUD services and barriers to adopting or expanding services. To identify the facilitators and barriers, data were coded using thematic analysis. RESULTS Seven jails were included in the study. Representatives from each jail participated in the seven interviews, which often included multiple participants per interview. Three of the jails had established routine practices for MOUD administration. Two jails occasionally administered MOUD or had plans in place to be able to administer, while the remaining two did not offer any MOUD. While administrative support, collaborative partnerships, and jail nurses facilitated MOUD use, barriers were more prevalent, including physical space limitations, distance to services, lack of providers in the area, staffing and training issues, funding/budget issues, and perceived risk of diversion. CONCLUSION Making MOUD available to people who are incarcerated is an important and timely step in enhancing the jail environment, especially in rural areas that often lack access to MOUD. As states look to require MOUD availability for people who are incarcerated, facilitators to MOUD adoption/expansion can be leveraged while strategies are needed to overcome barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi L McNeely
- The Schreiber Research Group, P.O. Box 371342, Denver, CO, 80237, USA.
| | - Terri L Schreiber
- The Schreiber Research Group, P.O. Box 371342, Denver, CO, 80237, USA
| | - William L Swann
- The Schreiber Research Group, P.O. Box 371342, Denver, CO, 80237, USA
- School of Public Administration, College of Public Affairs and Community Service, University of Nebraska at Omaha, 6001 Dodge Street, CPACS 111, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Claudia R Amura
- College of Nursing, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 13120 East 19th Avenue, 3rd Floor - Room 3255, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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Peddireddy SR, Livingston MD, Young AM, Freeman PR, Ibragimov U, Komro KA, Lofwall MR, Oser CB, Staton M, Cooper HLF. Willingness to utilize a mobile treatment unit in five counties at the epicenter of the US rural opioid epidemic. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 159:209262. [PMID: 38103835 PMCID: PMC10947911 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION US federal policies are evolving to expand the provision of mobile treatment units (MTUs) offering medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Mobile MOUD services are critical for rural areas with poor geographic access to fixed-site treatment providers. This study explored willingness to utilize an MTU among a sample of people who use opioids in rural Eastern Kentucky counties at the epicenter of the US opioid epidemic. METHODS The study analyzed Cross-sectional survey data from the Kentucky Communities and Researchers Engaging to Halt the Opioid Epidemic (CARE2HOPE) study covering five rural counties in the state. Logistic regression models investigated the association between willingness to utilize an MTU providing buprenorphine and naltrexone and potential correlates of willingness, identified using the Behavioral Model for Vulnerable Populations. RESULTS The analytic sample comprised 174 people who used opioids within the past six months. Willingness to utilize an MTU was high; 76.5 % of participants endorsed being willing. Those who had recently received MOUD treatment, compared to those who had not received any form of treatment or recovery support services, had six-fold higher odds of willingness to use an MTU. However, odds of being willing to utilize an MTU were 73 % lower among those who were under community supervision (e.g., parole, probation) and 81 % lower among participants who experienced an overdose within the past six months. CONCLUSIONS There was high acceptability of MTUs offering buprenorphine and naltrexone within this sample, highlighting the potential for MTUs to alleviate opioid-related harms in underserved rural areas. However, the finding that people who were recently under community supervision or had overdosed were significantly less willing to seek mobile MOUD treatment suggest barriers (e.g., stigma) to mobile MOUD at individual and systemic levels, which may prevent improving opioid-related outcomes in these rural communities given their high rates of criminal-legal involvement and overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snigdha R Peddireddy
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, USA.
| | - Melvin D Livingston
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, USA
| | - April M Young
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Patricia R Freeman
- Department of Pharmacy Practice & Science, University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Umedjon Ibragimov
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, USA
| | - Kelli A Komro
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, USA
| | - Michelle R Lofwall
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Carrie B Oser
- Department of Sociology, University of Kentucky College of Arts & Sciences, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Michele Staton
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Hannah L F Cooper
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, USA
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11
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Congia P, Carta E. Spatial and Environmental Correlates of Prevalence of Treatment for Substance Use Disorders, Retention, and SUD Services Utilization in South Sardinia. Psychiatr Q 2024; 95:121-135. [PMID: 38153599 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-023-10065-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
This study explored the economic, social, and spatial correlates of treatment prevalence, retention, and service utilization for substance use disorder (SUD) in South Sardinia. Data from 1,667 patients with an ICD-10 diagnosis of SUD were extracted from the medical records of individuals assisted by three public addiction services in 2019. We used a spatial autoregressive model, a parametric proportional hazard model, and Poisson regression to examine the associations of spatial factors and residents' socioeconomic status with the prevalence of treatment at the census block level, treatment retention, and SUD service utilization at the individual level. The prevalence was higher among residents of areas closer to competent treatment centers, with the worst building conservation status, a lower percentage of high school and university graduates, and a higher percentage of unemployed, divorced, separated, or widowed residents. Men who were older at the time of their first treatment access; primary users of cocaine, cannabis, and alcohol; had higher education level; and who lived far from competent treatment centers and closer to drug trafficking centers interrupted their treatment earlier. Primary heroin users experienced more SUD treatment encounters. Living in economically and socially disadvantaged areas and near treatment facilities was associated with a higher prevalence, whereas living near drug-dealing centers and far from competent treatment centers was associated with a decrease in treatment retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierpaolo Congia
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction, SER.D.2, ASSL Cagliari, Via Liguria, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Carta
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction, SER.D.2, ASSL Cagliari, Via Liguria, Cagliari, Italy
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12
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Sharareh N, Zheutlin AR, Qato DM, Guadamuz J, Bress A, Vos RO. Access to community pharmacies based on drive time and by rurality across the contiguous United States. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2024; 64:476-482. [PMID: 38215823 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Considering that mail-order pharmacy use remains low in the United States, geographic accessibility of community pharmacies (pharmacy access) can have an outsized impact on a community's access to services and care, especially among rural residents. However, previous measurements of pharmacy access rely on methods that do not capture all aspects of geographic access. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to measure pharmacy access across the contiguous United States and by rural, suburban, and urban areas using drive-time analysis and an improved methodological approach. METHODS The 2-step floating catchment area method was used to measure pharmacy access by considering the supply capacity of pharmacies, population demand for pharmacies, and the interaction between them within a reasonable travel time range. This method is a methodologically improved approach compared with previous methods for measuring geographic access. Network analysis was used to measure drive time from the population-weighted centroids of census tracts to the geocoded location of community pharmacies. Census tract-level pharmacy access was measured using a 10- and 20-minute drive time. Census tracts were also categorized based on population per square mile as rural (< 1000), suburban (1000-3000), and urban (> 3000). RESULTS Across the contiguous United States, 79.9% and 91.1% of census tracts had access to at least 1 pharmacy per 10,000 people within a 10- and 20-minute drive time, respectively. Rural census tracts had the lowest share of access to at least 1 pharmacy per 10,000 people compared with suburban and urban tracts and for both drive times. CONCLUSION Community pharmacies are highly accessible health care access points, specifically in urban and suburban areas. Pharmacies should be considered to expand access to services with limited geographic accessibility such as treatment programs for opioid use disorders, primary care, and healthy foods.
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Hassani M, Young SD. An Evaluation of the User Experience and Privacy Concerns of Individuals Misusing Opioids Using a Location Tracking Mobile Application. Subst Use Misuse 2024; 59:336-342. [PMID: 37874185 PMCID: PMC10842337 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2270583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Opioid use disorder is a growing public health concern in the United States, causing economic burden and hindered by stigma. New forms of data, including location data, may improve the effectiveness of interventions for preventing and treating opioid use disorder and/or misuse, increase access to treatment and address racial and ethnic disparities. This qualitative study aimed to identify factors that contribute to users' experience with a publicly available location-tracking mobile app - and investigate their privacy and ethical concerns. The study was conducted through two 15-minute interviews within a 48-h time frame. Participants were recruited from a pool of past research participants, Facebook ads, and referrals, and had to meet certain inclusion criteria related to opioid use disorder and/or misuse. The study had a final sample of 30 participants, 15 male and 15 female. The study suggests that a simple onboarding process and convenient experience can enhance participant adherence to the study app and other similar location-based research apps. However, the study also found that participants had concerns about privacy and transparency about locational privacy when sharing their location data. To improve the app, researchers suggest incorporating user behavior earlier in the app development stage. The study also highlights the importance of addressing ethical and privacy concerns such as limiting the types of collected data, incorporating data encryption and retention strategies, giving access to research staff only, and not sharing the data with third-party companies or law enforcement agencies to increase user satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Hassani
- Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Sean D Young
- Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
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14
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Brown AR, Walters JE, Harmer B, Cates L, Jones AE. Non-prescribing clinicians' treatment orientations and attitudes toward treatments for opioid use disorder: Rural differences. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2023; 155:209153. [PMID: 37673286 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The United States has experienced substantial increases in opioid use for more than two decades. This growth has impacted rural areas where overdoses have risen drastically during this time period and more often involve prescription opioids than in urban areas. Medications for opioid use disorders (MOUDs) are highly underutilized in rural settings due to lack of access, inadequate prescribing, and stigma. METHODS The study collected data using a cross-sectional online survey of nonprescribing clinicians (NPCs) involved in the treatment of substance use disorders (SUDs) in the United States. The study used multiple recruitment methods to obtain a purposive sample of NPCs from a variety of geographical contexts across the nation. The survey assessed demographic and practice characteristics including rurality of practice location, exposure and training related to MOUDs, treatment orientation, treatment preferences for opioid use disorder (OUD), and attitudes toward MOUDs. The study compared treatment preferences for OUD and attitudes toward MOUDs based on rurality of practice location. We tested a mediation model to determine whether the relationship between rurality of practice setting and attitudes toward MOUDs is mediated by treatment orientation. RESULTS Most of the 636 NPCs surveyed favored a combination of MOUDs and psychosocial treatment. Compared to clinicians practicing in suburban or urban areas, self-identified rural clinicians were more likely to favor MOUDs alone as most effective and less likely to endorse a combination of MOUDs and psychosocial treatment. Although most NPCs were supportive of MOUDs overall, many endorsed misconceptions related to MOUDs. Rural clinicians were less likely to perceive MOUDs as effective or acceptable compared to those in urban settings. Results of a mediation analysis indicated that practicing in a rural location compared to in an urban location directly and indirectly influenced attitudes toward MOUDs through an effect on treatment orientation. CONCLUSIONS NPCs play important roles in the implementation of MOUDs, and while efforts to increase their knowledge of and exposure to MOUDs have contributed broadly to more favorable attitudes toward MOUDs among NPCs, this study's findings indicate that additional efforts are still needed, particularly among NPCs who work in rural settings. Findings also indicate that, among rural clinicians, increasing knowledge of and exposure to harm reduction principles may be a necessary prerequisite to engaging them in the implementation of specific harm reduction strategies such as MOUDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron R Brown
- University of Kentucky, College of Social Work, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY 40506-0027, USA.
| | - Jayme E Walters
- Utah State University, Department of Social Work, 0730 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322-0730, USA
| | - Beth Harmer
- Western Carolina University, Department of Social Work, 3971 Little Savannah Rd, Cullowhee, NC 28723, USA
| | - Lara Cates
- Western Carolina University, Department of Social Work, 3971 Little Savannah Rd, Cullowhee, NC 28723, USA
| | - Aubrey E Jones
- University of Kentucky, College of Social Work, 619 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY 40506-0027, USA
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Nkemjika S, Tumenta T, Salazar L, Okosun IS. Waiting times disparities for medication-assisted therapy among opioid use disorder treatment population in the United States. J Addict Dis 2023; 41:322-333. [PMID: 36082620 DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2022.2116904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment has been described as beneficial in reducing the burden of OUD and its related complications. Thus far, there is a paucity of literature on the time-to-treatment differences from the period of seeking treatment to when the patient starts treatment. Hence, it is deemed a form of barrier to the accessibility of OUD treatment programs. We aim to study the relationship between accessibility for medication-assisted treatment and the disparity concerning days waiting to enter OUD treatment. The treatment episode data set (TEDS) was utilized for this study. The full sample of 2018 TEDS-D (N = 382,547) is representative of OUD patients that utilized SUD treatment facilities within the 50 states of the United States. Univariate and multivariable logistic analysis of the independent variables, and other covariates with the dependent variables were explored to estimate the adjusted odds ratio relationship. Medication-assisted opioid therapy use among respondents was significantly different with waiting 1-7 days [AOR = 1.321 (95% CI = 1.248-1.400)] and >7 days [AOR = 0.729 (95% CI = 0.665-0.799)] to enter OUD treatment compared to waiting for less than a day. Among adults seeking OUD treatment admissions, our study showed that waiting times vary with MAT use as there was early entry compared to >1week wait time. Similarly, significant associations were reported across different sociodemographic attributes except for biological sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley Nkemjika
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Terrence Tumenta
- Department of Psychiatry, Interfaith Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Laura Salazar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ike S Okosun
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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McFadden LM. Changes in buprenorphine visits in frontier and remote locations: Effects of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2023; 7:100155. [PMID: 37065774 PMCID: PMC10052936 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Background The pandemic has changed many aspects of healthcare, including the treatment of people with opioid use disorder with buprenorphine. Prior to the pandemic, rural health disparities existed in the accessibility of this treatment. Rural and frontier areas of the United States, particularly the Great Plains, had few or no providers of this evidence-based treatment. This study aimed to investigate how access to buprenorphine changed in the Great Plains during the pandemic. Methods This retrospective observational study compared the number of weekly patient appointments resulting in a buprenorphine prescription for 55 weeks before the start of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and 55 weeks after. Electronic health records of the largest rural health provider in the Great Plains were queried. Patients were categorized as coming from a frontier location or a non-frontier location based on the home address provided at the visit. The USDA defines frontier as communities that are small and distant from urban centers. Time series analysis was utilized to understand changes in weekly visits during this period. Results A significant increase in weekly buprenorphine visits occurred after the pandemic's start. Further, females and people from frontier locations had significantly higher numbers of buprenorphine visits. Conclusions In an area of the country with low pre-existing access to buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorder, increases in buprenorphine visits were found after the pandemic began. This was particularly true of females who reside in frontier areas. Pandemic-related changes may have reduced barriers to this critical treatment, especially among rural populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. McFadden
- University of South Dakota, 414 E. Clark Street, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
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