Expanding Access to Effective Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder: Provider Perspectives on Reducing Barriers to Evidence-Based Care

Despite rising rates of Americans suffering from opioid addiction, millions of Americans still lack access to quality, evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD).  Although there is no “one size fits all” approach to treatment, there is strong evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of FDA-approved medications, including buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone, for OUD treatment. Supporting development, access, and adoption of medication-assisted treatment for OUD is a key priority of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as part of its response to the opioid crisis. However, substantial challenges remain in patient access and provider utilization of medications for OUD treatment.   

The objective for this public workshop is to generate an active discussion with providers and health system stakeholders on the armamentarium of therapies to treat opioid use disorder, current barriers to appropriate use of these medications, and opportunities to further reduce stigma and expand access to effective pharmacotherapies as part of an evidence-based approach to OUD treatment. 

While this project is supported through a cooperative agreement with FDA, the views expressed in the accompanying documents are those of the participants in attendance, and do not necessarily reflect the official positions and policies of the Department of Health and Human Services, or imply endorsements by the U.S. Government or other organizations.