Perspectives on Medication Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder in Adolescents: Results from a Provider Learning Series

Abstract

Background: Adolescent opioid use and associated opioid poisoning rates have risen dramatically in the United States, yet this group has disproportionally poorer access to evidence-based medication treatment for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Methods: A transdisciplinary cohort (N = 77) who attended a learning series focused on MOUD for adolescents were surveyed with the purpose of understanding the landscape of current adolescent MOUD practices in Washington State; and needs and barriers to providing care. Results: Results indicated that a higher percentage of prescriber participants endorsed support for MOUD for adolescents than nonprescriber participants. Lack of adjunctive support services (i.e., social work; mental health) were cited as the highest barriers to providing this care. Conclusions: We discuss the importance of continued transdisciplinary training and collaboration, as well as funding ancillary services to address barriers to providing adolescent MOUD.