Telehealth Utilization Is Associated with Lower Risk of Discontinuation of Buprenorphine: a Retrospective Cohort Study of US Veterans.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) may include a combination of pharmacotherapies (such as buprenorphine) with counseling services if clinically indicated. Medication management or engagement with in-person counseling services may be hindered by logistical and financial barriers. Telehealth may provide an alternative mechanism for continued engagement. This study aimed to evaluate the association between telehealth encounters and time to discontinuation of buprenorphine treatment when compared to traditional in-person visits and to evaluate potential effect modification by rural-urban designation and in-person and telehealth combination treatment.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of Veterans diagnosed with OUD and treated with buprenorphine across all faci

SUBMITTER: Vakkalanka JP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8219175 | biostudies-literature | 2022 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature