A mobile addiction service for community-based overdose prevention

Area of Science:

• Addiction Medicine
• Public Health
• Mobile Health Services

Background:

• Opioid overdose prevention relies on medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and naloxone distribution.
• Barriers such as insurance, transportation, and phone access limit buprenorphine uptake, particularly in underserved communities.
• A mobile addiction service was developed to address these access challenges.

Observation:

• The "Road to Care" mobile service provided holistic addiction care, prioritizing patient convenience in scheduling and location.
• The program specifically extended access to buprenorphine and naloxone for individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Systemic and individual barriers were identified, with potential solutions proposed for future mobile service implementation.

Findings:

• Over two years, the service engaged 1,121 individuals in 4,567 encounters.
• Buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone®) was prescribed to 330 patients (29.4%).
• Nearly 250 naloxone kits were distributed on-site, with over 300 more via pharmacy prescriptions, leading to 74 reported rescue attempts.

Implications:

• Community-based mobile addiction services, integrated with major medical centers, can deliver high-volume, high-quality overdose prevention.
• This model effectively facilitates patient engagement with further addiction treatment.
• Mobile health strategies are crucial for expanding access to MOUD and naloxone, especially for vulnerable populations.