Implementing Community-Based Medication-Assisted Recovery for Opioid Use Disorder

Background: Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a significant problem facing many Americans. In Chicago, approximately 67,000 suffer with OUD and the city noted a 40% increase in overdose deaths in 2022. Community based recovery homes for formerly incarcerated people often encounter residents with OUD. Frequently, OUD services are only available off-site. Objective: Following baseline symptom reporting and OUD assessment, participants began buprenorphine-naloxone treatment on site. Drug and alcohol counseling continued. Improvements in symptoms and behaviors were key targets for this intervention, re-assessed at 90 days. Methods: This pilot study was conducted by the author at a recovery home for formerly incarcerated men. Eligibility criteria were male residents with OUD who were willing to participate in the intervention. Five residents met the inclusion criteria. Evaluation occurred viachart audits and a pre- and posttest three-point Likert scale survey. Results: Three participants completed treatment in the observation period. Two departed the intervention early. The survey and attendance records provided insight into intervention effectiveness. 50% of the participants reported an improvement in cravings. No change was seen in abstinence reporting. Excluding two early departures, those enrolled in treatment had excellent attendance for counseling therapy. Conclusion: The results suggest potential for an enhancement of on-site services offered by a community recovery home that serves formerly incarcerated people with a history of OUD. A centralized Medication Assisted Recovery (MAR) program has the potential to remove barriers to accessing abstinence therapy, reducing illicit use, and eliminating interruptions to recoveryobjectives. Implications for Nursing: This intervention could positively modifiy social determinants of health and reduce barriers to health care access. Ultimately, positively structuring an environment that is supportive of recovery facilitates a health and productive life.