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Perspectives from Systems-Level Key Informants on Optimizing Opioid Use Disorder Treatment for Adolescents and Young
Jasper Yeh1,2, Crosby Modrowski2,3, Isabel Aguirre1
1Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI 02903, USA.
Opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment for adolescents and young adults (AYA) is limited, especially for those under 18. Key informants emphasize the need for developmentally tailored OUD care, addressing stigma and resource access barriers.
Area of Science:
- Addiction Medicine
- Adolescent Health
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment rates are low among adolescents and young adults (AYA) aged 16-25.
- Qualitative analysis of key informant perspectives on OUD treatment for AYA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the availability, developmental considerations, and barriers of OUD treatment for AYA.
- To identify system-level challenges and opportunities for improving OUD care for young people.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured interviews with 30 key informants in the northeastern United States.
- Informants included treatment providers, clinic leaders, policymakers, and patient advocates.
- Thematic analysis of transcribed interviews identified seven key themes.
Main Results:
- Limited availability of OUD treatment programs for adolescents under 18.
- Essential elements for developmentally optimized AYA OUD treatment include caregiver involvement, peer connections, wraparound services, and early intervention.
- Barriers include stigma, knowledge gaps regarding OUD medications, and lack of access to basic resources like housing and food security.
Conclusions:
- Significant gaps exist in OUD treatment options for individuals under 18.
- There is a critical need for OUD treatment specifically tailored to the developmental needs of AYA.
- Modifications to existing adult treatment programs are recommended to enhance accessibility, relevance, and engagement for AYA.
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