Work

Key-Informant Perspectives On Pharmacy-Based Methadone Treatment For Opioid Use Disorder In The US

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Access to medications for opioid use disorder (OUD) in the pharmacy is internationally accepted; however, in the US, methadone treatment for OUD can only be provided by opioid treatment programs (OTPs). Under current US law, OTPs and pharmacies can partner to offer methadone in the pharmacy through "medication units." Changes to federal law could permit pharmacies to fill methadone prescriptions for OUD. To identify the advantages, disadvantages, barriers, and facilitators of pharmacy-based methadone treatment, we conducted interviews from April through July 2024 with thirty-one key informants, representing people with methadone treatment experience, OTP and pharmacy leadership, payers, and policy makers. Pharmacy-based methadone treatment was viewed favorably by all groups. People receiving OUD treatment embraced pharmacy-based methadone over models perpetuating restrictive OTP practices. Key facilitators included support for change, sustainable payment models, and clear regulations. Barriers included stigma, financial obstacles, and unclear regulations. Legislative and regulatory changes could expand access to methadone.

Source: Health Affairs

DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2025.00344

Authors: Maureen T. Stewart, Sage R. Feltus, Cynthia A. Tschampl, Jeffrey P. Bratberg, Traci C. Green

Institutions: Boston University, Brandeis University, University of Rhode Island

Language: English

Topic: Opioid Use Disorder Treatment

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: National Institute on Drug Abuse