Opioid use disorder (OUD) is undertreated even though there are effective medications for OUD (MOUD) (e.g., buprenorphine, naltrexone). A recent study evaluated the challenges and experiences faced by multidisciplinary primary care (PC) teams during the process of integrating MOUD into their practice. Twelve geographically distinct PC teams initiated or expanded MOUD using practice facilitation, a multifaceted, evidence-based implementation strategy, which provides ongoing coaching and technical support. Researchers conducted a mixed-methods formative evaluation using qualitative ethnographic field notes and structured surveys of PC teams, which included prescribing clinicians, nonprescribing behavioral health care managers, and consulting psychiatrists. Four main themes emerged from the data:
The study highlights the need for addressing barriers that make PC teams feel burdened by MOUD implementation. These barriers include limitations in scheduling flexibility, challenges in patient engagement, and the need for improved training and support for clinicians. To successfully implement MOUD in PC, efforts are required at both the organizational and system levels to provide incentives, flexibility, and adequate resources to support PC teams in delivering effective OUD treatment.
Reference:
Austin EJ et al. JAMA Netw Open 2023;6(8):e2328627. Abstract.
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