Prescriber Attitudes and Medication Assisted Treatment

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Increases in opioid use disorder (OUD) and the consequences to communities across the United States have resulted in a call for an increase in buprenorphine-based medication-assisted treatment (MAT) options. As legislative efforts continue to expand, it is important to understand the provider viewpoint of any such expansion. METHODS An anonymous survey was conducted in 2019 among primary care physicians, specialists, and mid-level practitioners, as well as dentists, op-tometrists, veterinarians, and providers currently practicing in West Virginia (WV) and eligible to prescribe opioids and scheduled substances. The survey included both quantitative and qualitative items measuring provider self-reported practices, training, support, experiences, and perceptions on treatment of patients using MAT. RESULTS A significant (p<0.001) majority of providers reported the need for MAT expansion and the belief that patients with OUD benefit from MAT (2.7% response rate). Despite this acknowledged need and established efficacy of MAT, survey findings suggest that fewer providers in WV seem interested or willing to expand their practice by providing MAT without additional resources and support. DISCUSSION Despite a small response rate, the participants responses provide useful information. While recent legislation efforts to encourage expansion of treatment waivers and access have been successful, providers reported significant barriers to expanding or incorporating MAT into their practices. Current MAT practitioners report institutional and staff support as major factors in their willingness to provide MAT. The critical question remains on how best to incentivize and sustain MAT practice and remove barriers for providers to meet the growing need and improve care.