Buprenorphine, a drug used to treat opioid addiction, is effective and now available from primary care doctors Most opioid users are unaware that they don't need to see an addiction specialist to get treatment, a survey shows Channeling addiction treatment through primary care doctors could have a major impact on the opioid epidemic, researchers say TUESDAY, July 2, 2024 (HealthDay News) -- Most people addicted to opioids and their loved ones are unaware that their primary care doctor can prescribe a medication to treat the disorder, a new nationwide survey reveals. "We've made great strides in making it easier for primary care doctors to prescribe these safe and effective treatments, but our study indicates a critical disconnect between the need for medications for opioid use disorder and people's knowledge about how to access them," said lead author Brandon del Pozo , an assistant professor of medicine and public health at Brown University. "Science, public health, insurance policy and public perception all must align to improve access to treatment," he added.
His team reviewed results of a June 2023 survey that included more than 1,200 people nationwide. While 82% of respondents who said they had misused prescription drugs or illicit opioids expressed comfort in seeking addiction treatment from their primary care doctor, most were unaware that they can prescribe buprenorphine, a medication to treat it. And 13% incorrectly believed they could not.
Two-thirds of respondents .
