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Wheeler PB, Miller-Roenigk B, Jester J, Stevens-Watkins D. Knowledge, experiences, and perceptions of medications for opioid use disorder among Black Kentuckians. Ann Med 2024; 56:2322051. [PMID: 38442301 PMCID: PMC10916927 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2322051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid overdoses have continued to increase at higher rates among Black Americans compared to people from other racial groups. Despite demonstrated effectiveness of MOUD in reducing risk of opioid overdose, Black Americans face decreased access to and uptake of MOUD. The current study aimed to examine the knowledge, perceptions, and experiences with MOUD among a sample of Black adults who use prescription opioids nonmedically in order to inform tailored efforts to improve MOUD uptake. METHODS Data were derived from a larger study assessing cultural and structural influences on drug use and drug treatment among people who use prescription opioids nonmedically. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 34 Black men and women across four generational cohorts: born 1955-1969; 1970-1979; 1980-1994; and 1995-2001. Participant responses were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Nearly half of participants (44.1%) reported no knowledge or experience with MOUD. Among participants who had any knowledge about MOUD, four major themes regarding their perceptions emerged: MOUD Helps with Recovery; Not Needed for Level of Drug Use; Side Effects and Withdrawal; Equivalence with Illicit Drug Use. The majority reported negative perceptions of MOUD (52.6%), and the youngest cohort (born 1995-2001) had a higher proportion of negative perceptions (80%) relative to other age cohorts (born 1980-1994: 50%; 1970-1979: 75%; 1955-1969: 16.6%). DISCUSSION Findings indicate a significant knowledge gap and clear points of intervention for improving MOUD uptake. Interventions to improve communication of health information in ways that are culturally relevant and tailored by age group can be used in conjunction with efforts to improve MOUD access among Black individuals who use opioids nonmedically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paris B. Wheeler
- Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Brittany Miller-Roenigk
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of KY, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jasmine Jester
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of KY, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Danelle Stevens-Watkins
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, University of KY, Lexington, KY, USA
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Miller-Roenigk BD, Wheeler PB, Jester JK, Hargons CN, Stevens-Watkins DJ. Generational and Gender Patterns of Prescription Opioid Misuse Among Black Adults. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 164:209436. [PMID: 38852823 PMCID: PMC11300149 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2024.209436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Opioid-related overdose mortality disproportionally affects Black adults in Kentucky, particularly overdoses associated with prescription opioid misuse (POM). Black adults also face other consequences of POM, such as disparate health and legal outcomes. While several factors effect POM, such as generational factors and gender, these risk factors are understudied among Black adults with a history of POM. Current literature primarily focuses on White individuals who use opioids. METHOD The present study qualitatively examined reasons for POM, prescription opioids misused, how prescription opioids are obtained, and initiation of POM among Black adults using thematic analysis. Participants included a sample (n = 39) of Black adults from a southern state, stratified by gender and age across four cohorts: born (1) 1995-2001, (2) 1980-1994, (3) 1970-1979, and (4) 1955-1969. RESULTS Results revealed similarities and differences in these themes across age cohorts and gender. CONCLUSIONS Implications for findings include the importance of culturally responsive interventions that utilize dual diagnosis treatment and idiographic approaches due to heterogeneous experiences with POM among Black adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany D Miller-Roenigk
- University of Kentucky, Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, 251 Scott St, Lexington, KY 40508, United States of America.
| | - Paris B Wheeler
- Univeristy of Cincinnati, Department of Psychology, 66 Corry Blvd, Cincinnati, OH 45219, United States of America.
| | - Jasmine K Jester
- University of Kentucky, Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, 251 Scott St, Lexington, KY 40508, United States of America.
| | - Candice N Hargons
- University of Kentucky, Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, 251 Scott St, Lexington, KY 40508, United States of America.
| | - Danelle J Stevens-Watkins
- University of Kentucky, Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, 251 Scott St, Lexington, KY 40508, United States of America.
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Banks DE, Paschke M, Ghonasgi R, Thompson VLS. Benefits and challenges of geographic information systems (GIS) for data-driven outreach in black communities experiencing overdose disparities: results of a stakeholder focus group. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:2103. [PMID: 39098915 PMCID: PMC11299267 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19541-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black individuals in the U.S. face increasing racial disparities in drug overdose related to social determinants of health, including place-based features. Mobile outreach efforts work to mitigate social determinants by servicing geographic areas with low drug treatment and overdose prevention access but are often limited by convenience-based targets. Geographic information systems (GIS) are often used to characterize and visualize the overdose crisis and could be translated to community to guide mobile outreach services. The current study examines the initial acceptability and appropriateness of GIS to facilitate data-driven outreach for reducing overdose inequities facing Black individuals. METHODS We convened a focus group of stakeholders (N = 8) in leadership roles at organizations conducting mobile outreach in predominantly Black neighborhoods of St. Louis, MO. Organizations represented provided adult mental health and substance use treatment or harm reduction services. Participants were prompted to discuss current outreach strategies and provided feedback on preliminary GIS-derived maps displaying regional overdose epidemiology. A reflexive approach to thematic analysis was used to extract themes. RESULTS Four themes were identified that contextualize the acceptability and utility of an overdose visualization tool to mobile service providers in Black communities. They were: 1) importance of considering broader community context; 2) potential for awareness, engagement, and community collaboration; 3) ensuring data relevance to the affected community; and 4) data manipulation and validity concerns. CONCLUSIONS There are several perceived benefits of using GIS to map overdose among mobile providers serving Black communities that are overburdened by the overdose crisis but under resourced. Perceived potential benefits included informing location-based targets for services as well as improving awareness of the overdose crisis and facilitating collaboration, advocacy, and resource allocation. However, as GIS-enabled visualization of drug overdose grows in science, public health, and community settings, stakeholders must consider concerns undermining community trust and benefits, particularly for Black communities facing historical inequities and ongoing disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin E Banks
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 South Euclid Avenue, Box 8134, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Maria Paschke
- Missouri Institute of Mental Health, University of Missouri, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rashmi Ghonasgi
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Takemoto E, Bolton A, Goetz CT. Inequities in naloxone administration among fatal overdose decedents by race and ethnicity in Pennsylvania, 2019-21. Addiction 2024; 119:1400-1409. [PMID: 38808397 DOI: 10.1111/add.16478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to characterize the circumstances of drug overdose deaths and determine whether naloxone administration differed by overdose decedent race and ethnicity. DESIGN AND SETTING Analysis of data on unintentional and undetermined intent drug overdose deaths in Pennsylvania (2019-21) was collected from death certificates and the State Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System. Multivariable logistic regression models were adjusted for overdose death circumstances and the odds of naloxone administration were estimated by race/ethnicity and year. CASES The analytical sample included 3386 fatal overdose decedents in 2019, 3864 in 2020 and 3816 in 2021. MEASUREMENTS Evidence of naloxone administration (yes/no) was defined using scene evidence and toxicology reports from coroner and medical examiner records, while race/ethnicity (Hispanic, non-Hispanic Black, non-Hispanic White) was based on the death certificate. FINDINGS In the analytic sample, overdose death rates were the highest among Black people and increased over time (rate per 10 000 population, 2019: 4.3; 2020: 6.1; 2021: 6.5); rates were lowest among White people and remained constant over time (rate per 10 000 population, 2019: 2.6; 2020: 2.7; 2021: 2.6). Throughout all years, Black decedents had approximately 40-50% lower odds of naloxone administration compared with White decedents as referent [2019: odds ratio (OR) = 0.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.5-0.9; 2020: OR = 0.5, 95% CI = 0.4-0.7; 2021: OR = 0.6, 95% CI = 0.5-0.8], while Hispanic decedents had similar odds of naloxone administration to that of White decedents. CONCLUSION After controlling for overdose circumstances in drug overdose deaths in Pennsylvania, USA, from 2019 to 2021, Black people had lower odds of naloxone administration compared with White people, while there were no differences between Hispanic and White people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Takemoto
- Office of Drug Surveillance and Misuse Prevention, Pennsylvania Department of Health, Harrisburg, PA, USA
- Bureau of Epidemiology, Pennsylvania Department of Health, Harrisburg, PA, USA
| | - Ashley Bolton
- Office of Drug Surveillance and Misuse Prevention, Pennsylvania Department of Health, Harrisburg, PA, USA
| | - Carrie Thomas Goetz
- Office of Drug Surveillance and Misuse Prevention, Pennsylvania Department of Health, Harrisburg, PA, USA
- Bureau of Epidemiology, Pennsylvania Department of Health, Harrisburg, PA, USA
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Krawczyk N, Lim S, Cherian T, Goldfeld KS, Katyal M, Rivera BD, McDonald R, Khan M, Wiewel E, Braunstein S, Murphy SM, Jalali A, Jeng PJ, Kutscher E, Khatri UG, Rosner Z, Vail WL, MacDonald R, Lee JD. Transitions of care between jail-based medications for opioid use disorder and ongoing treatment in the community: A retrospective cohort study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 261:111377. [PMID: 38924958 PMCID: PMC11249039 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Offering medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) in carceral settings significantly reduces overdose. However, it is unknown to what extent individuals in jails continue MOUD once they leave incarceration. We aimed to assess the relationship between in-jail MOUD and MOUD continuity in the month following release. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of linked NYC jail-based electronic health records and community Medicaid OUD treatment claims for individuals with OUD discharged from jail between 2011 and 2017. We compared receipt of MOUD within 30 days of release, among those with and without MOUD at release from jail. We tested for effect modification based on MOUD receipt prior to incarceration and assessed factors associated with treatment discontinuation. RESULTS Of 28,298 eligible incarcerations, 52.8 % received MOUD at release. 30 % of incarcerations with MOUD at release received community-based MOUD within 30 days, compared to 7 % of incarcerations without MOUD (Risk Ratio: 2.62 (2.44-2.82)). Most (69 %) with MOUD claims prior to incarceration who received in-jail MOUD continued treatment in the community, compared to 9 % of those without prior MOUD. Those who received methadone (vs. buprenorphine), were younger, Non-Hispanic Black and with no history of MOUD were less likely to continue MOUD following release. CONCLUSIONS MOUD maintenance in jail is strongly associated with MOUD continuity upon release. Still, findings highlight a gap in treatment continuity upon-reentry, especially among those who initiate MOUD in jail. In the wake of worsening overdose deaths and troubling disparities, improving MOUD continuity among this population remains an urgent priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Krawczyk
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Departments of Population Health and Medicine, 180 Madison Ave, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Sungwoo Lim
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY, United States
| | - Teena Cherian
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY, United States
| | - Keith S Goldfeld
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Departments of Population Health and Medicine, 180 Madison Ave, New York, NY, United States
| | - Monica Katyal
- NYC Health + Hospitals, Correctional Health Services, 55 Water Street, 18th Floor, New York, NY, United States
| | - Bianca D Rivera
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Departments of Population Health and Medicine, 180 Madison Ave, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ryan McDonald
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Departments of Population Health and Medicine, 180 Madison Ave, New York, NY, United States
| | - Maria Khan
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Departments of Population Health and Medicine, 180 Madison Ave, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ellen Wiewel
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY, United States
| | - Sarah Braunstein
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY, United States
| | - Sean M Murphy
- Weill Cornell Medical College, Department of Population Health Sciences, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ali Jalali
- Weill Cornell Medical College, Department of Population Health Sciences, New York, NY, United States
| | - Philip J Jeng
- Weill Cornell Medical College, Department of Population Health Sciences, New York, NY, United States
| | - Eric Kutscher
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Departments of Population Health and Medicine, 180 Madison Ave, New York, NY, United States; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Department of Emergency Medicine, 1 Gustav L. Levy Pl, NY, United States
| | - Utsha G Khatri
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Department of Emergency Medicine, 1 Gustav L. Levy Pl, NY, United States
| | - Zachary Rosner
- NYC Health + Hospitals, Correctional Health Services, 55 Water Street, 18th Floor, New York, NY, United States
| | - William L Vail
- NYC Health + Hospitals, Correctional Health Services, 55 Water Street, 18th Floor, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ross MacDonald
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Departments of Population Health and Medicine, 180 Madison Ave, New York, NY, United States; NYC Health + Hospitals, Correctional Health Services, 55 Water Street, 18th Floor, New York, NY, United States
| | - Joshua D Lee
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Departments of Population Health and Medicine, 180 Madison Ave, New York, NY, United States
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Jones CM, Zhang K, Han B, Guy GP, Losby J, Einstein EB, Delphin-Rittmon M, Volkow ND, Compton WM. Estimated Number of Children Who Lost a Parent to Drug Overdose in the US From 2011 to 2021. JAMA Psychiatry 2024; 81:789-796. [PMID: 38717781 PMCID: PMC11079787 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.0810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Importance Parents' overdose death can have a profound short- and long-term impact on their children, yet little is known about the number of children who have lost a parent to drug overdose in the US. Objective To estimate the number and rate of children who have lost a parent to drug overdose from 2011 to 2021 overall and by parental age, sex, and race and ethnicity. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a cross-sectional study of US community-dwelling persons using data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2010-2014 and 2015-2019) and the National Vital Statistics System (2011-2021). Data were analyzed from January to June 2023. Exposure Parental drug overdose death, stratified by age group, sex, and race and ethnicity. Main Outcomes and Measures Numbers, rates, and average annual percentage change (AAPC) in rates of children losing a parent aged 18 to 64 years to drug overdose, overall and by age, sex, and race and ethnicity. Results From 2011 to 2021, 649 599 adults aged 18 to 64 years died from a drug overdose (mean [SD] age, 41.7 [12.0] years; 430 050 [66.2%] male and 219 549 [33.8%] female; 62 606 [9.6%] Hispanic, 6899 [1.1%] non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native, 6133 [0.9%] non-Hispanic Asian or Pacific Islander, 82 313 [12.7%] non-Hispanic Black, 485 623 [74.8%] non-Hispanic White, and 6025 [0.9%] non-Hispanic with more than 1 race). Among these decedents, from 2011 to 2021, an estimated 321 566 (95% CI, 276 592-366 662) community-dwelling children lost a parent aged 18 to 64 years to drug overdose. The rate of community-dwelling children who lost a parent to drug overdose per 100 000 children increased from 27.0 per 100 000 in 2011 to 63.1 per 100 000 in 2021. The highest rates were found among children of non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native individuals, who had a rate of 187.1 per 100 000 in 2021, more than double the rate among children of non-Hispanic White individuals (76.5 per 100 000) and non-Hispanic Black individuals (73.2 per 100 000). While rates increased consistently each year for all parental age, sex, and race and ethnicity groups, non-Hispanic Black parents aged 18 to 25 years had the largest AAPC (23.8%; 95% CI, 16.5-31.6). Rates increased for both fathers and mothers; however, more children overall lost fathers (estimated 192 459; 95% CI, 164 081-220 838) than mothers (estimated 129 107; 95% CI, 112 510-145 824). Conclusions and Relevance An estimated 321 566 children lost a parent to drug overdose in the US from 2011 to 2021, with significant disparities evident across racial and ethnic groups. Given the potential short- and long-term negative impact of parental loss, program and policy planning should ensure that responses to the overdose crisis account for the full burden of drug overdose on families and children, including addressing the economic, social, educational, and health care needs of children who have lost parents to overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kun Zhang
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Beth Han
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Gery P. Guy
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jan Losby
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Emily B. Einstein
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Nora D. Volkow
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Wilson M. Compton
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Jones CM, Shoff C, Blanco C, Losby JL, Ling SM, Compton WM. Overdose, Behavioral Health Services, and Medications for Opioid Use Disorder After a Nonfatal Overdose. JAMA Intern Med 2024; 184:954-962. [PMID: 38884975 PMCID: PMC11184500 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2024.1733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Importance Recognizing and providing services to individuals at highest risk for drug overdose are paramount to addressing the drug overdose crisis. Objective To examine receipt of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), naloxone, and behavioral health services in the 12 months after an index nonfatal drug overdose and the association between receipt of these interventions and fatal drug overdose. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study was conducted in the US from January 2020 to December 2021 using claims, demographic, mortality, and other data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other sources. The cohort comprised Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries aged 18 years or older with International Statistical Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification codes for a nonfatal drug overdose. Data analysis was performed from February to November 2023. Exposures Demographic and clinical characteristics, substance use disorder, and psychiatric comorbidities. Main Outcomes and Measures Receipt of MOUD, naloxone, and behavioral health services as well as subsequent nonfatal and fatal drug overdoses. Results The cohort consisted of 136 762 Medicare beneficiaries (80 140 females [58.6%]; mean (SD) age of 68.2 [15.0] years) who experienced an index nonfatal drug overdose in 2020. The majority of individuals had Hispanic (5.8%), non-Hispanic Black (10.9%), and non-Hispanic White (78.8%) race and ethnicity and lived in metropolitan areas (78.9%). In the 12 months after their index nonfatal drug overdose, 23 815 beneficiaries (17.4%) experienced at least 1 subsequent nonfatal drug overdose and 1323 (1.0%) died of a fatal drug overdose. Opioids were involved in 72.2% of fatal drug overdoses. Among the cohort, 5556 (4.1%) received any MOUD and 8530 (6.2%) filled a naloxone prescription in the 12 months after the index nonfatal drug overdose. Filling a naloxone prescription (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.70; 95% CI, 0.56-0.89), each percentage of days receiving methadone (AOR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.98-0.99) or buprenorphine (AOR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.98-0.99), and receiving behavioral health assessment or crisis services (AOR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.22-0.28) were all associated with reduced adjusted odds of fatal drug overdose in the 12 months after the index nonfatal drug overdose. Conclusions and Relevance This cohort study found that, despite their known association with reduced risk of a fatal drug overdose, only a small percentage of Medicare beneficiaries received MOUD or filled a naloxone prescription in the 12 months after a nonfatal drug overdose. Efforts to improve access to behavioral health services; MOUD; and overdose-prevention strategies, such as prescribing naloxone and linking individuals to community-based health care settings for ongoing care, are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M. Jones
- Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Carla Shoff
- Office of the Administrator, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Carlos Blanco
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jan L. Losby
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Shari M. Ling
- Center for Clinical Standards and Quality, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Wilson M. Compton
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Bandara S, Byrne L, Berman V, Hurst A, King D, Gibbons JB, Sugarman OK, Livingston A, Kerins L, Hulsey EG, Alves A, Saloner B. Harm Reduction and Treatment Among People at High Risk of Overdose. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2427241. [PMID: 39133486 PMCID: PMC11320172 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.27241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Rates of overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids remain high, increasingly involve stimulants combined with opioids, and are increasing rapidly in racially and ethnically minoritized communities, yet little is known about access to harm reduction and treatment services in these groups. Objective To characterize access and barriers to harm reduction and treatment in a racially and ethnically diverse population of people who use drugs. Design, Setting, and Participants A cross-sectional telephone survey of people recruited from 39 treatment, harm reduction, and social service organizations in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin; Flint and Detroit, Michigan; and statewide in New Jersey was conducted from January 30 to July 28, 2023. Adults who used cocaine, methamphetamine, or opioids in the past 30 days called a study hotline and completed an interview in English or Spanish. Exposures Overdose experience, drug types used (opioids only, stimulants only, and polysubstance), and social risk factors (eg, financial instability and criminal legal involvement). Main Outcomes and Measures Recent use of any harm reduction services, fentanyl test strips, naloxone possession, treatment, and self-reported barriers to services. Results Of the total sample of 1240 adults, 486 (39.2%) were Black non-Hispanic, 183 (14.8%) were Hispanic, and 464 (37.4%) were White non-Hispanic. In the past 30 days, 826 individuals (66.6%) were polysubstance users, 135 (10.9%) used only opioids, and 279 (22.5%) used only stimulants. A total of 349 respondents (28.1%) experienced a prior-year overdose. Compared with those without a prior-year overdose, people with overdose were more likely to possess naloxone (80.7% vs 68.2%; P < .001), possess fentanyl test strips (36.8% vs 23.5%; P < .001), and use harm reduction services (63.4% vs 53.0%; P = .003), while differences in treatment use were nonsignificant (52.0% vs 46.6%; P = .24). Among stimulant-only users, 51.4% possessed naloxone compared with 77.3% of opioid-only users (P < .001) and 77.6% of polysubstance users (P < .001), with similar disparities in fentanyl test strip possession. Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional study of people who used drugs in the past 30 days, findings highlighted low use of harm reduction and treatment services among people who use stimulants. Additional communication regarding their importance may help increase the use of the services amidst a rapidly changing drug supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachini Bandara
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Lauren Byrne
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Vanessa Berman
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | | | | | | | - Olivia K. Sugarman
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Amy Livingston
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | | | | | | | - Brendan Saloner
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
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Lehman J, Balangoy D, Mejia AP, Cardenas-Iniguez C, Marek S, Randolph AC. Negligence in biomedical research: an anti-racist approach for substance use researchers. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1401221. [PMID: 39145167 PMCID: PMC11322128 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1401221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Racism is embedded in the fabric of society at structural, disciplinary, hegemonic, and interpersonal levels, working as a mechanism that drives health disparities. In particular, stigmatized views of substance use get entangled with racialization, serving as a tool to uphold oppressive systems. While national health institutions have made commitments to dismantle these systems in the United States, anti-racism has not been integrated into biomedical research practice. The ways in which substance use researchers use and interpret race data-without engaging in structural racism as a mechanism of health inequity-can only be described as inadequate. Drawing upon concepts from the Public Health Critical Race praxis, QuantCrit, and an anti-racism research framework, we recommend a set of guidelines to help biomedical researchers conceptualize and engage with race more responsibly in substance use research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Lehman
- Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Danniella Balangoy
- Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Angie P. Mejia
- Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Carlos Cardenas-Iniguez
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Scott Marek
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Neuroimaging Labs Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- AI Institute for Health, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Anita C. Randolph
- Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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10
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McNeely J, Wang SS, Rostam Abadi Y, Barron C, Billings J, Tarpey T, Fernando J, Appleton N, Fawole A, Mazumdar M, Weinstein ZM, Kalyanaraman Marcello R, Dolle J, Cooke C, Siddiqui S, King C. Addiction Consultation Services for Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Initiation and Engagement: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Intern Med 2024:2821706. [PMID: 39073796 PMCID: PMC11287446 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2024.3422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Importance Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are highly effective, but only 22% of individuals in the US with opioid use disorder receive them. Hospitalization potentially provides an opportunity to initiate MOUD and link patients to ongoing treatment. Objective To study the effectiveness of interprofessional hospital addiction consultation services in increasing MOUD treatment initiation and engagement. Design, Setting, and Participants This pragmatic stepped-wedge cluster randomized implementation and effectiveness (hybrid type 1) trial was conducted in 6 public hospitals in New York, New York, and included 2315 adults with hospitalizations identified in Medicaid claims data between October 2017 and January 2021. Data analysis was conducted in December 2023. Hospitals were randomized to an intervention start date, and outcomes were compared during treatment as usual (TAU) and intervention conditions. Bayesian analysis accounted for the clustering of patients within hospitals and open cohort nature of the study. The addiction consultation service intervention was compared with TAU using posterior probabilities of model parameters from hierarchical logistic regression models that were adjusted for age, sex, and study period. Eligible participants had an admission or discharge diagnosis of opioid use disorder or opioid poisoning/adverse effects, were hospitalized at least 1 night in a medical/surgical inpatient unit, and were not receiving MOUD before hospitalization. Interventions Hospitals implemented an addiction consultation service that provided inpatient specialty care for substance use disorders. Consultation teams comprised a medical clinician, social worker or addiction counselor, and peer counselor. Main Outcomes and Measures The dual primary outcomes were (1) MOUD treatment initiation during the first 14 days after hospital discharge and (2) MOUD engagement for the 30 days following initiation. Results Of 2315 adults, 628 (27.1%) were female, and the mean (SD) age was 47.0 (12.4) years. Initiation of MOUD was 11.0% in the Consult for Addiction Treatment and Care in Hospitals (CATCH) program vs 6.7% in TAU, engagement was 7.4% vs 5.3%, respectively, and continuation for 6 months was 3.2% vs 2.4%. Patients hospitalized during CATCH had 7.96 times higher odds of initiating MOUD (log-odds ratio, 2.07; 95% credible interval, 0.51-4.00) and 6.90 times higher odds of MOUD engagement (log-odds ratio, 1.93; 95% credible interval, 0.09-4.18). Conclusions This randomized clinical trial found that interprofessional addiction consultation services significantly increased postdischarge MOUD initiation and engagement among patients with opioid use disorder. However, the observed rates of MOUD initiation and engagement were still low; further efforts are still needed to improve hospital-based and community-based services for MOUD treatment. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03611335.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer McNeely
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Scarlett S. Wang
- New York University Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, New York
| | - Yasna Rostam Abadi
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Charles Barron
- Office of Behavioral Health, New York City Health + Hospitals, New York, New York
| | - John Billings
- New York University Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, New York
| | - Thaddeus Tarpey
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Jasmine Fernando
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Noa Appleton
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Adetayo Fawole
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Medha Mazumdar
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Zoe M. Weinstein
- Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian and Avedesian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Johanna Dolle
- Office of Population Health, New York City Health + Hospitals, New York, New York
| | - Caroline Cooke
- Office of Population Health, New York City Health + Hospitals, New York, New York
| | - Samira Siddiqui
- Office of Behavioral Health, New York City Health + Hospitals, New York, New York
| | - Carla King
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
- Office of Behavioral Health, New York City Health + Hospitals, New York, New York
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11
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Paradise RK, Bazzi AR, Clarke J, Desmarais J, Hoyos-Cespedes A, Nurani A, O'Malley SE, Taylor S, Walley AY, Dooley D, Kimmel SD. Multilevel Factors Impacting Substance Use Treatment Access, Engagement, and Racial Equity Among Opioid Overdose Survivors in Boston, MA. J Gen Intern Med 2024:10.1007/s11606-024-08918-0. [PMID: 38997532 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-024-08918-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are well-documented racial/ethnic inequities in drug-related overdoses and access to evidence-based opioid use services nationally and in Boston, MA. OBJECTIVE To qualitatively explore the drivers of racial/ethnic inequities in access to opioid use disorder treatment and services in Boston. DESIGN Semi-structured qualitative interviews. PARTICIPANTS Using purposive sampling, researchers recruited 59 opioid overdose survivors in Boston who self-identified as Black, Hispanic or Latino/a/x, and/or White. APPROACH Interviewers administered a socio-demographic and drug use survey, and used a semi-structured interview guide to explore experiences with and perspectives on substance use treatment and services. KEY RESULTS Participants' racial/ethnic identities were distributed across three subgroups: non-Hispanic Black (n = 18; 31%), non-Hispanic White (n = 18; 31%), and Latino/a/x (n = 23; 39%). Qualitative analysis identified multiple themes that were organized into four social-ecological levels after analysis. At the individual level, some participants emphasized the importance of personal responsibility and individual motivation in determining access to services. Participants expressed a range of perspectives about using medication for opioid use disorder treatment; Black and Latino/a/x participants were more likely than White participants to have critical perspectives. At the interpersonal level, experiences of bias, stigma, and racism from staff in healthcare and treatment settings were common. At the program/process level, participants described challenges connecting to services following overdose and barriers within specific programs, with Black and Latino/a/x participants experiencing particular gaps. At the systems level, the limited availability of housing, employment, and mental health care negatively impacted treatment access and engagement. CONCLUSION A racism lens was used during data interpretation to apply the themes at a broader population level. Through this lens, the identified barriers can be understood to have a disproportionate impact on people of color. Findings call for programmatic and policy solutions that address racism, break down stigma, and ensure equitable access to evidence-based services and social supports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjani K Paradise
- Institute for Community Health, Malden, MA, USA.
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Angela R Bazzi
- University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Alexander Y Walley
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Simeon D Kimmel
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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12
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Winston TR, Reed M, Roberts M, Panjwani A, Farfalla J, Pless V, Miles A, Rooks-Peck C, Underwood NL. Implementing a Needs Assessment to Advance Health Equity in Overdose Prevention and Surveillance Initiatives. Public Health Rep 2024; 139:99S-105S. [PMID: 38519872 PMCID: PMC11339672 DOI: 10.1177/00333549241239905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES State, local, and federal agencies have expanded efforts to address the root causes of overdoses, including health inequity and related social determinants of health. As an Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) technical assistance provider, the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) conducted the first national needs assessment to understand capacity and technical assistance needs of OD2A jurisdictions in advancing health equity. METHODS ASTHO designed and disseminated the OD2A Recipient Health Equity Needs Assessment (RHENA) to 66 OD2A-funded jurisdictions from February to March 2022. OD2A principal investigators and staff were contacted via email and asked to complete the needs assessment within 6 weeks. One coder manually coded open-ended responses, conducted a thematic analysis on the qualitative data, and performed a simple frequency analysis on the quantitative data. RESULTS Fifty-two jurisdictions (78.8%) responded, including 36 states, 12 cities/counties, and 2 territories. Most jurisdictions (n = 46; 88.5%) reported having a formal or informal health equity lead in place. Common barriers included a lack of access to data sources (n = 37; 71.2%), lack of partnerships (n = 20; 38.5%), and lack of funding (n = 14; 26.9%). Respondents reported needing more information sharing among jurisdictions and partner organizations, coaching on best practices, and routine discussions such as peer-to-peer learning sessions. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that gaps remain in programmatic policies and principles to address inequities in overdose prevention. Results are being used to identify additional technical assistance opportunities, jurisdictional capacity, and approaches to advance health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany R Winston
- Division of Overdose Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Minda Reed
- Division of Overdose Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Marissa Roberts
- Division of Overdose Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Aashna Panjwani
- Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Jennifer Farfalla
- Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Victoria Pless
- Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Ayana Miles
- Division of Overdose Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Cherie Rooks-Peck
- Division of Overdose Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Natasha L Underwood
- Office of the Director, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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13
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Rouhani S, Zhang L, Winiker AK, Sherman SG, Bandara S. Emerging models of de facto drug policy reforms in the United States. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 260:111341. [PMID: 38815292 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health and human rights organizations have endorsed drug decriminalization to promote public health-oriented approaches to substance use. In the US, policymakers have begun to pursue this via prosecutorial discretion-or the decision by a prosecutor to decline criminal charges for drug possession in their jurisdiction. This study characterizes drivers of adoption, policy design and implementation processes, and barriers to impact and sustainability of this approach to inform evolving policy efforts promoting the health of people who use drugs (PWUD). METHODS We conducted n=22 key informant interviews with policymakers and national policy experts representing 13 jurisdictions implementing de facto drug policy reforms. Analyses were informed by the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation and Sustainment (EPIS) framework and analyzed using a hybrid inductive-deductive approach. RESULTS Drivers of policy adoption included racial inequities, perceived failures of criminalization, and desires to prioritize violent crime given resource constraints. Three distinct policy typologies are described with varying conditions for eligibility, linkage to services, and policy transparency and dissemination. Public misinformation, police resistance and political opposition were seen as threats to sustainability. CONCLUSIONS Given evidence that criminalization amplifies drug-related harms, many policymakers are adopting de facto drug policy reforms in the absence of formal legislation. This is the first study to systematically describe relevant implementation processes and emerging policy models. Findings have implications for designing rigorous evaluations on health outcomes and informing sustainable evidence-based policies to promote health and racial equity of PWUD in the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Rouhani
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, United States; Center for Anti-racism, Social Justice and Public Health, New York University School of Global Public Health, United States; Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States.
| | - Leanne Zhang
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States
| | - Abigail K Winiker
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States
| | - Sachini Bandara
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States
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14
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Dowell D, Brown S, Gyawali S, Hoenig J, Ko J, Mikosz C, Ussery E, Baldwin G, Jones CM, Olsen Y, Tomoyasu N, Han B, Compton WM, Volkow ND. Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder: Population Estimates - United States, 2022. MMWR. MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT 2024; 73:567-574. [PMID: 38935567 PMCID: PMC11254342 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7325a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
In 2022, 81,806 opioid-involved overdose deaths were reported in the United States, more than in any previous year. Medications for opioid use disorder (OUD), particularly buprenorphine and methadone, substantially reduce overdose-related and overall mortality. However, only a small proportion of persons with OUD receive these medications. Data from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health were applied to a cascade of care framework to estimate and characterize U.S. adult populations who need OUD treatment, receive any OUD treatment, and receive medications for OUD. In 2022, 3.7% of U.S. adults aged ≥18 years needed OUD treatment. Among these, only 25.1% received medications for OUD. Most adults who needed OUD treatment either did not perceive that they needed it (42.7%) or received OUD treatment without medications for OUD (30.0%). Compared with non-Hispanic Black or African American and Hispanic or Latino adults, higher percentages of non-Hispanic White adults received any OUD treatment. Higher percentages of men and adults aged 35-49 years received medications for OUD than did women and younger or older adults. Expanded communication about the effectiveness of medications for OUD is needed. Increased efforts to engage persons with OUD in treatment that includes medications are essential. Clinicians and other treatment providers should offer or arrange evidence-based treatment, including medications, for patients with OUD. Pharmacists and payors can work to make these medications available without delays.
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15
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Merkel R, Hernandez N, Weir V, Zhang Y, Rich MT, Crist RC, Reiner BC, Schmidt HD. An endogenous GLP-1 circuit engages VTA GABA neurons to regulate mesolimbic dopamine neurons and attenuate cocaine seeking. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.20.599574. [PMID: 38979354 PMCID: PMC11230186 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.20.599574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies show that systemic administration of a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist is sufficient to attenuate the reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behavior, an animal model of relapse. However, the neural mechanisms mediating these effects and the role of endogenous central GLP-1 signaling in cocaine seeking remain unknown. Here, we show that voluntary cocaine taking decreased plasma GLP-1 levels in rats and that chemogenetic activation of GLP-1-producing neurons in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) that project to the ventral tegmental area (VTA) decreased cocaine reinstatement. Single nuclei transcriptomics and FISH studies revealed GLP-1Rs are expressed primarily on GABA neurons in the VTA. Using in vivo fiber photometry, we found that the efficacy of a systemic GLP-1R agonist to attenuate cocaine seeking was associated with increased activity of VTA GABA neurons and decreased activity of VTA dopamine neurons. Together, these findings suggest that targeting central GLP-1 circuits may be an effective strategy toward reducing cocaine relapse and highlight a novel functional role of GABAergic GLP-1R-expressing midbrain neurons in drug seeking.
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16
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Salvi A, Gillenwater LA, Cockrum BP, Wiehe SE, Christian K, Cayton J, Bailey T, Schwartz K, Dir AL, Ray B, Aalsma MC, Reda K. Development of a Real-Time Dashboard for Overdose Touchpoints: User-Centered Design Approach. JMIR Hum Factors 2024; 11:e57239. [PMID: 38861717 PMCID: PMC11200046 DOI: 10.2196/57239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overdose Fatality Review (OFR) is an important public health tool for shaping overdose prevention strategies in communities. However, OFR teams review only a few cases at a time, which typically represent a small fraction of the total fatalities in their jurisdiction. Such limited review could result in a partial understanding of local overdose patterns, leading to policy recommendations that do not fully address the broader community needs. OBJECTIVE This study explored the potential to enhance conventional OFRs with a data dashboard, incorporating visualizations of touchpoints-events that precede overdoses-to highlight prevention opportunities. METHODS We conducted 2 focus groups and a survey of OFR experts to characterize their information needs and design a real-time dashboard that tracks and measures decedents' past interactions with services in Indiana. Experts (N=27) were engaged, yielding insights on essential data features to incorporate and providing feedback to guide the development of visualizations. RESULTS The findings highlighted the importance of showing decedents' interactions with health services (emergency medical services) and the justice system (incarcerations). Emphasis was also placed on maintaining decedent anonymity, particularly in small communities, and the need for training OFR members in data interpretation. The developed dashboard summarizes key touchpoint metrics, including prevalence, interaction frequency, and time intervals between touchpoints and overdoses, with data viewable at the county and state levels. In an initial evaluation, the dashboard was well received for its comprehensive data coverage and its potential for enhancing OFR recommendations and case selection. CONCLUSIONS The Indiana touchpoints dashboard is the first to display real-time visualizations that link administrative and overdose mortality data across the state. This resource equips local health officials and OFRs with timely, quantitative, and spatiotemporal insights into overdose risk factors in their communities, facilitating data-driven interventions and policy changes. However, fully integrating the dashboard into OFR practices will likely require training teams in data interpretation and decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amey Salvi
- School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, Indiana University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Logan A Gillenwater
- Children's Health Services Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Brandon P Cockrum
- Indiana Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Sarah E Wiehe
- Children's Health Services Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Indiana Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | | | - John Cayton
- Indiana Management Performance Hub, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Timothy Bailey
- Indiana Management Performance Hub, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Katherine Schwartz
- Children's Health Services Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Allyson L Dir
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Bradley Ray
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Matthew C Aalsma
- Children's Health Services Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Khairi Reda
- School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, Indiana University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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17
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Richardson M, Hirchak K, Bajet K, Brigman M, Shaffer R, Keyes B, Oliver KA, Kropp F, McDonell MG, Venner KL, Campbell ANC. Provider perspectives on the impact of COVID-19 on treatment of substance use and opioid use disorders among American Indian and Alaska Native adults. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1356033. [PMID: 38898893 PMCID: PMC11186410 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1356033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities are more likely to suffer negative consequences related to substance misuse. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the opioid poisoning crisis, in combination with ongoing treatment barriers resulting from settler-colonialism, systemic oppression and racial discrimination. AI/AN adults are at greatest risk of COVID-19 related serious illness and death. In collaboration with an Indigenous community advisory board and Tribal leadership, this study explored AI/AN treatment provider perceptions of client-relatives' (i.e., SUD treatment recipients) experiences during the pandemic from 2020 to 2022. Methods Providers who underwent screening and were eligible to participate (N = 25) represented 6 programs and organizations serving rural and urban areas in Washington, Utah, and Minnesota. Participants engaged in audio-recorded 60-90 min semi-structured individual interviews conducted virtually via Zoom. The interview guide included 15 questions covering regulatory changes, guidance for telemedicine, policy and procedures, staff communication, and client-relatives' reactions to implemented changes, service utilization, changes in treatment modality, and perceptions of impact on their roles and practice. Interview recordings were transcribed and de-identified. Members of the research team independently reviewed transcripts before reaching consensus. Coding was completed in Dedoose, followed by analyses informed by a qualitative descriptive approach. Results Five main domains were identified related to client-relative experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, as observed by providers: (1) accessibility, (2) co-occurring mental health, (3) social determinants of health, (4) substance use, coping, and harm reduction strategies, and (5) community strengths. Providers reported the distinctive experiences of AI/AN communities, highlighting the impact on client-relatives, who faced challenges such as reduced income, heightened grief and loss, and elevated rates of substance use and opioid-related poisonings. Community and culturally informed programming promoting resilience and healing are outlined. Conclusion Findings underscore the impact on SUD among AI/AN communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Identifying treatment barriers and mental health impacts on client-relatives during a global pandemic can inform ongoing and future culturally responsive SUD prevention and treatment strategies. Elevating collective voice to strengthen Indigenous informed systems of care to address the gap in culturally-and community-based services, can bolster holistic approaches and long-term service needs to promote SUD prevention efforts beyond emergency response efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meenakshi Richardson
- Human Development, Washington State University Vancouver, Vancouver, WA, United States
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- Promoting Research Initiatives in Substance Use and Mental Health (PRISM) Collaborative, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- College of Education, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Katherine Hirchak
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- Promoting Research Initiatives in Substance Use and Mental Health (PRISM) Collaborative, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- College of Education, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Kelsey Bajet
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- Promoting Research Initiatives in Substance Use and Mental Health (PRISM) Collaborative, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- College of Education, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Mariah Brigman
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- Promoting Research Initiatives in Substance Use and Mental Health (PRISM) Collaborative, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- College of Education, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | | | - Beverly Keyes
- Independent Researcher, Tribal Lands, WA, United States
| | | | - Frankie Kropp
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Michael G. McDonell
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- Promoting Research Initiatives in Substance Use and Mental Health (PRISM) Collaborative, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University Spokane, Spokane, WA, United States
- College of Education, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Kamilla L. Venner
- Department of Psychology and Center on Alcohol, Substance Use & Addiction, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Aimee N. C. Campbell
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
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Sledge D, Hoang BL. Racial/ethnic representation in opioid use disorder-related clinical trials. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 161:209338. [PMID: 38537872 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2024.209338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about representation in trials aimed at addressing Opioid Use Disorder. This is a crucial issue given high mortality rates overall and substantial differences in death rates across racial/ethnic groups. METHODS We analyzed data from clinical trials, data on Census population, data on new admissions to treatment facilities with a diagnosis of Opioid Use Disorder, and mortality data. RESULTS We found that Native American people (who face the highest opioid-related mortality burden in the United States) were under-represented in clinical trials. Black people (who face the second highest mortality rate) were enrolled at levels that exceeded those expected. Our results suggest the need for increased efforts to include Native Americans in OUD clinical trials and also that researchers should consider the possibility that high levels of enrollment among black Americans may represent an undue burden. We found ambiguous results for Asian American and Hispanic people. Our analysis also suggests that White people were represented at levels below those expected, although they were a majority of clinical trials participants. CONCLUSION Overall, these findings highlight the importance of equity in clinical trials and major gaps in terms of representation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Sledge
- Health Administration and Policy, Hudson College of Public Health, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences, United States of America.
| | - Bai Linh Hoang
- Political Science, The University of Texas at Arlington, United States of America
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Coppler PJ, Brown M, Moschenross DM, Gopalan PR, Presciutti AM, Doshi AA, Sawyer KN, Frisch A, Callaway CW, Elmer J. Impact of Preexisting Depression and Anxiety on Hospital Readmission and Long-Term Survival After Cardiac Arrest. J Intensive Care Med 2024; 39:542-549. [PMID: 38073090 PMCID: PMC11090726 DOI: 10.1177/08850666231218963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While sudden cardiac arrest (CA) survivors are at risk for developing psychiatric disorders, little is known about the impact of preexisting mental health conditions on long-term survival or postacute healthcare utilization. We examined the prevalence of preexisting psychiatric conditions in CA patients who survived hospital discharge, characterized incidence and reason for inpatient psychiatry consultation during these patients' acute hospitalizations, and determined the association of pre-CA depression and anxiety with hospital readmission rates and long-term survival. We hypothesized that prior depression or anxiety would be associated with higher hospital readmission rates and lower long-term survival. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study including patients resuscitated from in- and out-of-hospital CA who survived both admission and discharge from a single hospital between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2017. We identified patients from our prospective registry, then performed a structured chart review to abstract past psychiatric history, prescription medications for psychiatric conditions, and identify inpatient psychiatric consultations. We used administrative data to identify readmissions within 1 year and vital status through December 31, 2020. We used multivariable Cox regressions controlling for patient demographics, medical comorbidities, discharge Cerebral Performance Category and disposition, depression, and anxiety history to predict long-term survival and hospital readmission. RESULTS We included 684 subjects. Past depression or anxiety was noted in 24% (n = 162) and 19% (n = 129) of subjects. A minority of subjects (n = 139, 20%) received a psychiatry consultation during the index hospitalization. Overall, 262 (39%) subjects had at least 1 readmission within 1 year. Past depression was associated with an increased hazard of hospital readmission (hazard ratio 1.50, 95% CI 1.11-2.04), while past anxiety was not associated with readmission. Neither depression nor anxiety were independently associated with long-term survival. CONCLUSIONS Depression is an independent risk factor for hospital readmission in CA survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J. Coppler
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - McKenzie Brown
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Darcy M. Moschenross
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Priya R. Gopalan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Alexander M. Presciutti
- Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ankur A. Doshi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kelly N. Sawyer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Adam Frisch
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Clifton W. Callaway
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jonathan Elmer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Neurology Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Palzes VA, Chi FW, Metz VE, Sterling S, Asyyed A, Ridout KK, Campbell CI. Addiction Medicine Treatment Utilization by Race/Ethnicity Among Adolescents With Substance Use Problems Before Versus During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Adolesc Health 2024; 74:1260-1263. [PMID: 38416100 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine changes in addiction medicine treatment utilization during the COVID-19 pandemic among adolescents (aged 13-17 years) and differences by race/ethnicity. METHODS We compared treatment initiation (overall and telehealth), engagement, and 12-week retention between insured adolescents with substance use problems during pre-COVID-19 (March to December 2019, n = 1,770) and COVID-19 (March to December 2020, n = 1,177) using electronic health record data from Kaiser Permanente Northern California. RESULTS Compared to pre-COVID-19, odds of treatment initiation, overall (adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval] = 1.42 [1.21-1.67]), and telehealth (5.98 [4.59-7.80]) were higher during COVID-19, but odds of engagement and retention did not significantly change. Depending on the outcome, Asian/Pacific Islander, Black, and Latino/Hispanic (vs. White) adolescents had lower treatment utilization across both periods. Changes in utilization over time did not differ by race/ethnicity. DISCUSSION Addiction medicine treatment initiation increased among insured adolescents during the pandemic, especially via telehealth. Although racial/ethnic disparities in treatment utilization persisted, they did not worsen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa A Palzes
- Center for Addiction and Mental Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, Oakland, California.
| | - Felicia W Chi
- Center for Addiction and Mental Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, Oakland, California
| | - Verena E Metz
- Center for Addiction and Mental Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, Oakland, California
| | - Stacy Sterling
- Center for Addiction and Mental Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, Oakland, California; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Department of Health Systems Science, Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, Pasadena, California
| | - Asma Asyyed
- Addiction Medicine and Recovery Services, The Permanente Medical Group Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Kathryn K Ridout
- Center for Addiction and Mental Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, Oakland, California; Department of Psychiatry, Kaiser Permanente, Santa Rosa Medical Center, Santa Rosa, California
| | - Cynthia I Campbell
- Center for Addiction and Mental Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, Oakland, California; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Department of Health Systems Science, Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, Pasadena, California
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21
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Allen DZ, Talmadge J, Yen D, Bedrosian JC, Frost M, Wang T, Mathai A, Jarecki-Smith J, Citardi MJ. Bystander-application of a novel nasal swab optimized for drug delivery is safe and non-traumatic for the general population. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 259:111289. [PMID: 38643531 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The PN Naloxone Nasal Swab (Pocket Naloxone Corp., Bethesda, MD) is a swab optimized for drug delivery and intended for use by non-medical personnel for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose. The aim of this study (PNC-20-003) is to determine the safety of this nasal swab in a real-world environment. METHODS This was a single-institution, quantitative-qualitative prospective trial performed at an outpatient clinic. Patients with normal or abnormal nasal structure were recruited. A non-medically trained individual placed the nasal (soaked in fluorescein dye) on each side of the patient's nose. Endoscopy with recording was performed before and after swab placement. An independent reviewer rated degree of staining, mucosal bleeding, and trauma at nasal subsites. RESULTS Videos from 32 nasal cavities (16 participants) were reviewed. All cavities had high intensity staining at the septum and the inferior turbinate. No patients had staining within the middle meatus, agger nasi, or olfactory regions. In patients with normal anatomy, obstructive nasal anatomy or prior nasal surgery, all cavities had staining near the nasal septum. Only 7 cavities (22 %) had minor bleeding defined as ooze that stopped in 1-2min, and 3 (9 %) had minor trauma defined as mucosal disruption less than 5mm. There were no significant differences in comparing pre- and post-swab nasal cavity, trauma, or bleeding exams. CONCLUSIONS These study results showed that this swab is atraumatic to the nasal mucosal membranes when administered by non-medical personnel. Analysis suggests contact with targeted sites for drug absorption regardless of anatomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Z Allen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | | | - David Yen
- Specialty Physician Associates, Bethlehem, PA 18017, United States
| | | | - Michael Frost
- Pocket Naloxone Corp., Bethesda, MD 20816, United States
| | - Tao Wang
- Pocket Naloxone Corp., Bethesda, MD 20816, United States
| | | | | | - Martin J Citardi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
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Glasgow L, Douglas C, Sprunger JG, Campbell ANC, Chandler R, Dasgupta A, Holloway J, Marks KR, Roberts SM, Martinez LS, Thompson K, Weiss RD, Aldridge A, Asman K, Barbosa C, Blevins D, Chassler D, Cogan L, Fanucchi L, Hall ME, Hunt T, Jadovich E, Levin FR, Lincourt P, Lofwall MR, Loukas V, McAlearney AS, Nunes E, Oga E, Oller D, Rudorf M, Sullivan AM, Talbert J, Taylor A, Teater J, Vandergrift N, Woodlock K, Zarkin GA, Freisthler B, Samet JH, Walsh SL, El-Bassel N. Effect of the Communities that HEAL intervention on receipt of behavioral therapies for opioid use disorder: A cluster randomized wait-list controlled trial. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 259:111286. [PMID: 38626553 PMCID: PMC11111326 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The U.S. opioid overdose crisis persists. Outpatient behavioral health services (BHS) are essential components of a comprehensive response to opioid use disorder and overdose fatalities. The Helping to End Addiction Long-Term® (HEALing) Communities Study developed the Communities That HEAL (CTH) intervention to reduce opioid overdose deaths in 67 communities in Kentucky, Ohio, New York, and Massachusetts through the implementation of evidence-based practices (EBPs), including BHS. This paper compares the rate of individuals receiving outpatient BHS in Wave 1 intervention communities (n = 34) to waitlisted Wave 2 communities (n = 33). METHODS Medicaid data included individuals ≥18 years of age receiving any of five BHS categories: intensive outpatient, outpatient, case management, peer support, and case management or peer support. Negative binomial regression models estimated the rate of receiving each BHS for Wave 1 and Wave 2. Effect modification analyses evaluated changes in the effect of the CTH intervention between Wave 1 and Wave 2 by research site, rurality, age, sex, and race/ethnicity. RESULTS No significant differences were detected between intervention and waitlisted communities in the rate of individuals receiving any of the five BHS categories. None of the interaction effects used to test the effect modification were significant. CONCLUSIONS Several factors should be considered when interpreting results-no significant intervention effects were observed through Medicaid claims data, the best available data source but limited in terms of capturing individuals reached by the intervention. Also, the 12-month evaluation window may have been too brief to see improved outcomes considering the time required to stand-up BHS. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trials.gov http://www. CLINICALTRIALS gov: Identifier: NCT04111939.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joel G Sprunger
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati Center for Addiction Research, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Aimee N C Campbell
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, New York, NY, USA
| | - Redonna Chandler
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anindita Dasgupta
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Katherine R Marks
- Kentucky Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities, Frankfort, KY, USA
| | - Sara M Roberts
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Katherine Thompson
- University of Kentucky, Dr. Bing Zhang Department of Statistics, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Roger D Weiss
- McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, USA
| | | | - Kat Asman
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Derek Blevins
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Lindsay Cogan
- New York State Department of Health, Office of Quality and Patient Safety, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laura Fanucchi
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Megan E Hall
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Timothy Hunt
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Frances R Levin
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Patricia Lincourt
- New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports, Albany, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Edward Nunes
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emmanuel Oga
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Devin Oller
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | | | | - Jeffery Talbert
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Angela Taylor
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Julie Teater
- Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Jeffrey H Samet
- Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sharon L Walsh
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
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Atkins DN, Del Pozo B, Clark MH, Andraka-Christou B, O'Donnell D, Ray B. Disparities in the accuracy of reporting opioid overdoses to 9-1-1 by race and sex of overdose victim, Marion County, Indiana, 2011-2020. HEALTH & JUSTICE 2024; 12:25. [PMID: 38819492 PMCID: PMC11143637 DOI: 10.1186/s40352-024-00279-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the prevalence of emergency medical incidents wherein naloxone was administered but overdose was not described as the chief complaint during the 9-1-1 call, including differences by overdose victim race/ethnicity and sex. METHODS We computed the percentage of 9-1-1 calls in Marion County, Indiana, from 2011 to 2020, wherein naloxone was administered but the caller did not describe overdose as the chief complaint. We estimated a logistic regression to examine the associations between reporting of overdose as the chief complaint and race and sex of the overdose victim. RESULTS Almost one-fifth of 9-1-1 calls preceding naloxone administration did not describe overdose as the chief complaint. 9-1-1 callers were more likely to describe a non-overdose as the chief complaint when the overdose victim was Black or female. CONCLUSION 9-1-1 callers are less likely to use terminology describing overdose when the overdose victim is female or Black, than when the victim is male or White. Inaccurate terminology when calling 9-1-1 could delay naloxone administration, thereby increasing risk of overdose death and hypoxic brain injury. Some 9-1-1 callers may be avoiding overdose terminology to prevent a police response, or due to lack of knowledge about overdose identification, but further research is needed to determine the mechanisms underlying these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle N Atkins
- Askew School of Public Administration and Policy, Florida State University, Tallahassee, USA.
| | - Brandon Del Pozo
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, USA
| | - M H Clark
- Department of Learning Sciences and Educational Research, University of Central Florida, Orlando, USA
| | | | | | - Bradley Ray
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, USA
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24
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Lindenfeld Z, Silver D, Pagán JA, Zhang DS, Chang JE. Examining the relationship between social determinants of health, measures of structural racism and county-level overdose deaths from 2017-2020. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304256. [PMID: 38781234 PMCID: PMC11115243 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite being an important determinant of health outcomes, measures of structural racism are lacking in studies examining the relationship between the social determinants of health (SDOH) and overdose deaths. The aim of this study is to examine the association between per capita revenue generated from fines and forfeitures, a novel measure of structural racism, and other SDOH with county-level overdose deaths from 2017-2020. METHODS This longitudinal analysis of 2,846 counties from 2017-2020 used bivariate and multivariate Generalized Estimating Equations models to estimate associations between county overdose mortality rates and SDOH characteristics, including the fines and forfeitures measure. RESULTS In our multivariate model, higher per capita fine and forfeiture revenue (5.76; CI: 4.76, 6.78), households receiving food stamps (1.15; CI: 0.77, 1.53), residents that are veterans (1.07; CI: 0.52, 1.63), substance use treatment availability (4.69; CI: 3.03, 6.33) and lower population density (-0.002; CI: -0.004, -0.001) and percent of Black residents (-0.7`; CI: -1.01, -0.42) were significantly associated with higher overdose death rates. There was a significant additive interaction between the fines and forfeitures measure (0.10; CI: 0.03, 0.17) and the percent of Black residents. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that structural racism, along with other SDOH, is associated with overdose deaths. Future research should focus on connecting individual-level data on fines and forfeitures to overdose deaths and other health outcomes, include measures of justice-related fines, such as court fees, and assess whether interventions aimed at increasing economic vitality in disadvantaged communities impact overdose deaths in a meaningful way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Lindenfeld
- Department of Public Health Policy and Management, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Diana Silver
- Department of Public Health Policy and Management, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - José A. Pagán
- Department of Public Health Policy and Management, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Donglan Stacy Zhang
- Division of Health Services Research, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, New York, United States of America
| | - Ji Eun Chang
- Department of Public Health Policy and Management, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
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Pasman E, Lee G, Singer S, Burson N, Agius E, Resko SM. Attitudes toward medications for opioid use disorder among peer recovery specialists. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2024; 50:391-400. [PMID: 38640497 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2024.2332597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Background: Peer recovery specialists (PRSs) are substance use service providers with lived experience in recovery. Although a large body of research demonstrates the efficacy of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), emerging research suggests PRSs' attitudes toward MOUD are ambivalent or mixed. Few studies have quantitatively assessed factors influencing PRSs' attitudes.Objectives: This study identifies personal and professional characteristics associated with attitudes toward MOUD among PRSs.Methods: PRSs working at publicly funded agencies in Michigan completed a self-administered web-based survey (N = 266, 60.5% women). Surveys assessed socio-demographics, treatment and recovery history, attitudes toward clients, and attitudes toward MOUD. Multiple linear regression was used to identify factors associated with attitudes toward MOUD.Results: A minority of PRSs (21.4%) reported a history of treatment with MOUD, while nearly two-thirds reported current 12-step involvement (62.5%). Compared to PRSs without a history of MOUD treatment, PRSs who had positive (b = 4.71, p < .001) and mixed (b = 3.36, p = .010) experiences with MOUD had more positive attitudes; PRSs with negative experiences with MOUD had less positive attitudes (b = -3.16, p = .003). Current 12-step involvement (b = -1.63, p = .007) and more stigmatizing attitudes toward clients (b = -.294, p < .001) were associated with less positive attitudes toward MOUD. Black PRSs had less positive attitudes than White PRSs (b = -2.50, p = .001), and women had more positive attitudes than men (b = 1.19, p = .038).Conclusion: PRSs' attitudes toward MOUD varied based on the nature of their lived experience. Findings highlight considerations for training and supervising PRSs who serve individuals with opioid use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Pasman
- Center for the Study of Drugs, Alcohol, Smoking and Health, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Guijin Lee
- Department of Counseling and Human Development Services, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Samantha Singer
- School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Nick Burson
- School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Elizabeth Agius
- School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Stella M Resko
- School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Merrill Palmer Skillman Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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Skinner A, Nolen S, Cerdá M, Rich JD, Marshall BD. A simple heuristic for allocating opioid settlement funding to reduce overdose mortality in the United States. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2024; 50:269-275. [PMID: 38940829 PMCID: PMC11305910 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2024.2364338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
As resolution for opioid-related claims and litigation against pharmaceutical manufacturers and other stakeholders, state and local governments are newly eligible for millions of dollars of settlement funding to address the overdose crisis in the United States. To inform effective use of opioid settlement funds, we propose a simple framework that highlights the principal determinants of overdose mortality: the number of people at risk of overdose each year, the average annual number of overdoses per person at risk, and the average probability of death per overdose event. We assert that the annual number of overdose deaths is a function of these three determinants, all of which can be modified through public health intervention. Our proposed heuristic depicts how each of these drivers of drug-related mortality - and the corresponding interventions designed to address each term - operate both in isolation and in conjunction. We intend for this framework to be used by policymakers as a tool for identifying and evaluating public health interventions and funding priorities that will most effectively address the structural forces shaping the overdose crisis and reduce overdose deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Skinner
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Shayla Nolen
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Magdalena Cerdá
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, US
| | - Josiah D. Rich
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- The Center for Health and Justice Transformation, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Brandon D.L. Marshall
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
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Kennedy-Hendricks A, Ettman CK, Gollust SE, Bandara SN, Abdalla SM, Castrucci BC, Galea S. Experience of Personal Loss Due to Drug Overdose Among US Adults. JAMA HEALTH FORUM 2024; 5:e241262. [PMID: 38819798 PMCID: PMC11143465 DOI: 10.1001/jamahealthforum.2024.1262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Since 1999, over 1 million people have died of a drug overdose in the US. However, little is known about the bereaved, meaning their family, friends, and acquaintances, and their views on the importance of addiction as a policy priority. Objectives To quantify the scope of the drug overdose crisis in terms of personal overdose loss (ie, knowing someone who died of a drug overdose) and to assess the policy implications of this loss. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study used data from a nationally representative survey of US adults (age ≥18 years), the fourth wave of the COVID-19 and Life Stressors Impact on Mental Health and Well-Being (CLIMB) study, which was conducted from March to April 2023. Main Outcomes and Measures Respondents reported whether they knew someone who died of a drug overdose and the nature of their relationship with the decedent(s). They also reported their political party affiliation and rated the importance of addiction as a policy issue. Logistic regression models estimated the associations between sociodemographic characteristics and political party affiliation and the probability of experiencing a personal overdose loss and between the experience of overdose loss and the perceived salience of addiction as a policy issue. Survey weights adjusted for sampling design and nonresponse. Results Of the 7802 panelists invited to participate, 2479 completed the survey (31.8% response rate); 153 were excluded because they did not know whether they knew someone who died of a drug overdose, resulting in a final analytic sample of 2326 (51.4% female; mean [SD] age, 48.12 [0.48] years). Of these respondents, 32.0% (95% CI, 28.8%-34.3%) reported any personal overdose loss, translating to 82.7 million US adults. A total of 18.9% (95% CI, 17.1%-20.8%) of all respondents, translating to 48.9 million US adults, reported having a family member or close friend die of drug overdose. Personal overdose loss was more prevalent among groups with lower income (<$30 000: 39.9%; ≥$100 000: 26.0%). The experience of overdose loss did not differ across political party groups (Democrat: 29.0%; Republican: 33.0%; independent or none: 34.2%). Experiencing overdose loss was associated with a greater odds of viewing addiction as an extremely or very important policy issue (adjusted odds ratio, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.09-1.72) after adjustment for sociodemographic and geographic characteristics and political party affiliation. Conclusions and Relevance This cross-sectional study found that 32% of US adults reported knowing someone who died of a drug overdose and that personal overdose loss was associated with greater odds of endorsing addiction as an important policy issue. The findings suggest that mobilization of this group may be an avenue to facilitate greater policy change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alene Kennedy-Hendricks
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Catherine K. Ettman
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sarah E. Gollust
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis
| | - Sachini N. Bandara
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Salma M. Abdalla
- Department of Epidemiology and Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Sandro Galea
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
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Friedman JR, Tiako MJN, Hansen H. Understanding and Addressing Widening Racial Inequalities in Drug Overdose. Am J Psychiatry 2024; 181:381-390. [PMID: 38706336 PMCID: PMC11076008 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.20230917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
The fourth wave of the United States overdose crisis-driven by the polysubstance use of fentanyl with stimulants and other synthetic substances-has driven sharply escalating racial/ethnic inequalities in drug overdose death rates. Here the authors present a detailed portrait of the latest overdose trends and synthesize the literature to describe where, how, and why these inequalities are worsening. By 2022 overdose deaths among Native and Black Americans rose to 1.8 and 1.4 times the rate seen among White Americans, respectively. This reflects that Black and Native Americans have been disproportionately affected by fentanyl and the combination of fentanyl and stimulants at the national level and in virtually every state. The highest overdose deaths rates are currently seen among Black Americans 55-64 years of age as well as younger cohorts of Native Americans 25-44 years of age. In 2022-the latest year of data available-deaths among White Americans decreased relative to 2021, whereas rates among all other groups assessed continued to rise. Moving forward, Fundamental Cause Theory shows us a relevant universal truth of implementation science: in socially unequal societies, new technologies typically end up favoring more privileged groups first, thereby widening inequalities unless underlying social inequalities are addressed. Therefore, interventions designed to reduce addiction and overdose death rates that are not explicitly designed to also improve racial/ethnic inequalities will often unintentionally end up worsening them. Well-funded community-based programs, with Black and Native leadership, providing harm reduction resources, naloxone, and medications for opioid use disorder in the context of comprehensive, culturally appropriate healthcare and other services, represent the highest priority interventions to decrease inequalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph R. Friedman
- Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, University of California, Los Angeles
| | | | - Helena Hansen
- Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, University of California, Los Angeles
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles
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Drake C, Nagy D, Meiselbach MK, Zhu JM, Saloner B, Stein BD, Polsky D. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Geographic Availability of Buprenorphine. J Addict Med 2024; 18:335-338. [PMID: 38833558 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Overdose mortality has risen most rapidly among racial and ethnic minority groups while buprenorphine prescribing has increased disproportionately in predominantly non-Hispanic White urban areas. To identify whether buprenorphine availability equitably meets the needs of diverse populations, we examined the differential geographic availability of buprenorphine in areas with greater concentrations of racial and ethnic minority groups. METHODS Using IQVIA longitudinal prescription data, IQVIA OneKey data, and Microsoft Bing Maps, we calculated 2 outcome measures across the continental United States: the number of buprenorphine prescribers per 1000 residents within a 30-minute drive of a ZIP code, and the number of buprenorphine prescriptions dispensed per capita at retail pharmacies among nearby buprenorphine prescribers. We then estimated differences in these outcomes by ZIP codes' racial and ethnic minority composition and rurality with t tests. RESULTS Buprenorphine prescribers per 1000 residents within a 30-minute drive decreased by 3.8 prescribers per 1000 residents in urban ZIP codes (95% confidence interval = -4.9 to -2.7) and 2.6 in rural ZIP codes (95% confidence interval = -3.0 to -2.2) whose populations consisted of ≥5% racial and ethnic minority groups. There were 45% to 55% fewer prescribers in urban areas and 62% to 79% fewer prescribers in rural areas as minority composition increased. Differences in dispensed buprenorphine per capita were similar but larger in magnitude. CONCLUSIONS Achieving more equitable buprenorphine access requires not only increasing the number of buprenorphine-prescribing clinicians; in urban areas with higher racial and ethnic minority group populations, it also requires efforts to promote greater buprenorphine prescribing among already prescribing clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coleman Drake
- From the Department of Health Policy and Management, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA (CD, DN); Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD (MKM, BS, DP); Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR (JMZ); and RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA (BDS)
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Lei F, Lofwall MR, McAninch J, Adatorwovor R, Slade E, Freeman PR, Moga DC, Dasgupta N, Walsh SL, Vickers-Smith R, Slavova S. Higher First 30-Day Dose of Buprenorphine for Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Is Associated With Decreased Mortality. J Addict Med 2024; 18:319-326. [PMID: 38598300 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Buprenorphine is a medication for opioid use disorder that reduces mortality. This study aims to investigate the less well-understood relationship between the dose in the early stages of treatment and the subsequent risk of death. METHODS We used Kentucky prescription monitoring data to identify adult Kentucky residents initiating transmucosal buprenorphine medication for opioid use disorder (January 2017 to November 2019). Average daily buprenorphine dose for days covered in the first 30 days of treatment was categorized as ≤8 mg, >8 to ≤16 mg, and >16 mg. Patients were followed for 365 days after the first 30 days of buprenorphine treatment. Endpoints were opioid-involved overdose death and death from other causes. Causes and dates of death were obtained using Kentucky death certificate records. Associations were evaluated using multivariable Fine and Gray models adjusting for patient baseline characteristics. RESULTS In the cohort of 49,857 patients, there were 227 opioid-involved overdose deaths and 459 deaths from other causes. Compared with ≤8 mg, the adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio (aSHR) of opioid-involved overdose death decreased by 55% (aSHR, 0.45; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.34-0.60) and 64% (aSHR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.25-0.52) for patients receiving doses of >8 to ≤16 mg and >16 mg, respectively. The incidence of death from other causes was lower in patients receiving >8 to ≤16 mg (aSHR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.62-0.98) and >16 mg (aSHR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.47-0.80) versus ≤8 mg dose. CONCLUSIONS Higher first 30-day buprenorphine doses were associated with reduced opioid-involved overdose death and death from other causes, supporting benefit of higher dosing in reducing mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feitong Lei
- From the Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY (FL, RA, ES, SS); Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY (FL, PRF, DCM); Departments of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY (MRL, SLW); Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY (MRL, SLW, RV-S); Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration (JM); Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC (ND); Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY (RV-S, DCM); and Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY (SS, DCM, PRF)
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Mohd Nawawi NAA, Othman EA, Mohd Nasir F, Abdullah KA, Baharudin MN. Drug addictions in Malaysia: a mini-review on drug types, rehabilitation centers and therapeutic programs. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38588590 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2024.2336495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Drug addiction remains one of the most complex social problems worldwide that has yet to be resolved. In Malaysia, abuse of various types of drugs has been reported which warrants the government to take immediate strategies in managing drug addicts. Despite implementing various strategies to treat drug addiction, statistics show the number of relapses continues to skyrocket over the years. This calls for urgent attention to improve the effectiveness of substance abuse treatment services in Malaysia. Moreover, emerging evidence shows a change in trend in the type of drug being abused. This factor could potentially contribute to the ineffectiveness of the strategies employed in the treatment of substance abuse. Therefore, this review provides an overview of the major types of drugs commonly abused in Malaysia. Additionally, in an effort to search for ways to improve the effectiveness of substance abuse treatment services, we identified the public institutions responsible for managing drug addicts in Malaysia and discussed the therapeutic programs offered at the institutions. Review findings support the need for future research on the effectiveness of these therapeutic programs and recommend the implementation of evidence-based programs to improve the effectiveness of substance abuse treatments in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elza Azri Othman
- Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
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Cohen MJ, Dressler RL, Kaliner E. Receipt of prescription opioid medication is associated with increased mortality in an Israeli population. Isr J Health Policy Res 2024; 13:17. [PMID: 38570850 PMCID: PMC10988899 DOI: 10.1186/s13584-024-00606-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite Israel's increased use of prescription opioids, reported deaths resulting or associated with opioids have decreased, in fact dramatically, since 2005. This contrast is unique and difficult to explain. We sought to examine whether higher prescribed opioid dosages among adults without oncologic diagnoses were associated with higher all-cause mortality rates. METHODS A historical cohort study in Clalit Health Services, using a data repository including all adult patients prescribed opiates between 2010 and 2020, excluding patients with oncologic diagnoses. Patients were classified into three groups according to opioid use: below 50 Morphine milligram equivalents (MME) per day, 50 to 90 MME per day, and above 90 MME per day. Sex, Charlson comorbidity score, age and socioeconomic status were recorded. Mortality rates were compared between the dosage groups and compared to age-standardized mortality rates in the general population. RESULTS On multivariate analysis, patients receiving 90 or more MME per day were 2.37 (95%CI 2.1 to 2.68) more likely to have died compared to patients receiving below 50 MME per day. The respective hazard ratio among patients receiving between 50 and 90 MME per day was 2.23 (2.01 to 2.46). Among patients aged 18 to 50, standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) compared to the general population ranged between 5.4 to 8.6 among women, receiving between 50 and 90 MME per day, and between 8.07 and 10.7 among women receiving 90 or more MME per day. The respective SMRs among men were 1.2 to 3.8 and 2.7 to 5.4. CONCLUSION Increased opioid use is independently associated with increased all-cause mortality among non-oncological patients. This result is most notable among young adults with little or no known comorbidities. These findings are consistent with results in other countries and seem more credible than previous Israeli reports. Healthcare regulators and providers should, therefore, act to curtail the increasing opioid prescriptions and devise and enhance controls in the healthcare system, which, until 2020, had very limited mechanisms in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matan J Cohen
- Clalit Health Services, Jerusalem district, Hebrew University of Jerusalem Faculty of Medicine, Bet Shemesh, Israel.
| | - Reuven L Dressler
- Clalit Health Services, Department of Family Medicine, Jerusalem district, Hebrew University of Jerusalem Faculty of Medicine, Maale Adumim, Israel
| | - Ehud Kaliner
- State of Israel Ministry of Health, Central District, Ramla, Israel
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Rigg KK, Kusiak ES, Rigg LK. Motivations for Misusing Opioids Among African Americans. SUBSTANCE USE & ADDICTION JOURNAL 2024; 45:240-249. [PMID: 38258821 DOI: 10.1177/29767342231214118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A wide range of opioid misuse motives have been documented in the literature, including to relieve physical pain, feel good/get high, relax, manage feelings/emotions, sleep, and moderate the effects of other substances. Despite a rise in opioid misuse among African Americans over the last 2 decades, their motivations for misuse remain unclear. Much of the research on opioid misuse motivations either rely on samples with little racial diversity or do not stratify their findings by race. As a result, less is known about the specific reasons why African Americans engage in opioid misuse. The objective of this study, therefore, was to identify and explain the most common motives for misusing opioids among African Americans. Qualitative interview data are also presented to explain/contextualize the most prevalent motivations. METHODS This study used data from the Florida Minority Health Survey, a mixed-methods project that included online surveys (n = 303) and qualitative in-depth interviews (n = 30) of African Americans. Data collection was conducted from August 2021 to February 2022 throughout Southwest Florida. RESULTS Analyses revealed that while some (33.9%) misused opioids for purposes of recreation/sensation seeking (eg, feel good/get high), the majority (66.1%) were attempting to self-treat perceived medical symptoms (eg, physical pain, anxiety/trauma, withdrawals, insomnia). CONCLUSIONS This study contributes to a better understanding of why some African Americans engage in opioid misuse and findings highlight the need for interventions to be trauma informed and address unmanaged physical pain among African Americans. Given that most studies on motivations are quantitative in nature, the study contributes to the literature by capturing the voices of African Americans who use drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khary K Rigg
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Ethan S Kusiak
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Lindi K Rigg
- School of Psychology and Counseling, Regent University, Virginia Beach, VA, USA
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Bazazi AR, Low P, Gomez BO, Snyder H, Hom JK, Soran CS, Zevin B, Mason M, Graterol J, Coffin PO. Overdose from Unintentional Fentanyl Use when Intending to Use a Non-opioid Substance: An Analysis of Medically Attended Opioid Overdose Events. J Urban Health 2024; 101:245-251. [PMID: 38568466 PMCID: PMC11052958 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-024-00852-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Fentanyl-mixed and substituted heroin is well-documented, but less is known about unintentional fentanyl use among people using stimulants. To determine the prevalence of and racial and ethnic disparities in unintentional fentanyl use among people experiencing a medically attended opioid overdose, we reviewed 448 suspected non-fatal overdose cases attended by a community paramedic overdose response team in San Francisco from June to September 2022. We applied a case definition for opioid overdose to paramedic records and abstracted data on intended substance use prior to overdose. Among events meeting case criteria with data on intended substance use, intentional opioid use was reported by 57.3%, 98.0% of whom intended to use fentanyl. No intentional opioid use was reported by 42.7%, with most intending to use stimulants (72.6%), including methamphetamine and cocaine. No intentional opioid use was reported by 58.5% of Black, 52.4% of Latinx, and 28.8% of White individuals (p = 0.021), and by 57.6% of women and 39.5% of men (p = 0.061). These findings suggest that unintentional fentanyl use among people without opioid tolerance may cause a significant proportion of opioid overdoses in San Francisco. While intentional fentanyl use might be underreported, the magnitude of self-reported unintentional use merits further investigation to confirm this phenomenon, explore mechanisms of use and disparities by race and ethnicity, and deploy targeted overdose prevention interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R Bazazi
- Division of Substance Abuse and Addiction Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94110, USA.
| | - Patrick Low
- Division of Substance Abuse and Addiction Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94110, USA
| | - Bryson O Gomez
- Division of Substance Abuse and Addiction Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94110, USA
| | - Hannah Snyder
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 995 Potrero Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94110, USA
| | - Jeffrey K Hom
- Population Behavioral Health, Behavioral Health Services Division, San Francisco Department of Public Health, 101 Grove St, San Francisco, CA, 94102, USA
| | - Christine S Soran
- Division of Substance Abuse and Addiction Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94110, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94110, USA
| | - Barry Zevin
- Street Medicine and Shelter Health, San Francisco Department of Public Health, 555 Stevenson St, San Francisco, CA, 94105, USA
| | - Michael Mason
- Community Paramedicine Division, San Francisco Fire Department, 698 2nd St, San Francisco, CA, 94107, USA
| | - Joseph Graterol
- Community Paramedicine Division, San Francisco Fire Department, 698 2nd St, San Francisco, CA, 94107, USA
| | - Phillip O Coffin
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
- Center On Substance Use and Health, San Francisco Department of Public Health, 101 Grove St, San Francisco, CA, 94102, USA
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Jester JK, Miller-Roenigk B, Wheeler P, Stevens-Watkins D. Associations between traumatic life events and substance use among Black Men who are incarcerated. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2024:1-19. [PMID: 38511975 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2024.2326948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
The current study examined associations between traumatic life events, current and lifetime importance of mental health and substance use treatment, and crack cocaine use among 201 Black men who were incarcerated and nearing community reentry. Results indicated age, sexual trauma and lifetime importance of drug treatment were significantly associated with an increased likelihood of crack cocaine use. Substance abuse treatment in correctional settings should consider culturally tailored assessment and treatment for history of unaddressed sexual trauma among Black men who are incarcerated and use crack cocaine.
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Harper CR, Treves-Kagan S. Transformational narrative changes as a community-level approach to the prevention of adverse childhood experiences and substance use. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38469946 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
There is increasing scientific evidence linking substance use, childhood adversity, and social determinants of health. However, little research has considered the evaluation of community-level strategies to reduce substance use by increasing awareness and implementation of evidence-based strategies for preventing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). This article lays out the conceptual framework for a $2.9 million demonstration project designed to raise awareness of the impact of ACEs on substance use, including primary prevention strategies. Communities used transformational narrative change-with an emphasis on the voices of those most impacted by ACEs and substance use-to highlight the importance of addressing social determinants of health along with primary prevention strategies. The conceptual background highlighted in this article informed media, public health, and local efforts in the three accompanying articles and invited commentary. These findings may help inform future efforts to promote community-level strategies and strengthen the evidence-base for transformational narrative change efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R Harper
- Division of Violence Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sarah Treves-Kagan
- Division of Violence Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Rigg KK, Weiner MA, Kusiak ES. Patterns of polydrug use among Black Americans who misuse opioids. J Behav Health Serv Res 2024:10.1007/s11414-024-09878-3. [PMID: 38468073 DOI: 10.1007/s11414-024-09878-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
In the United States, opioid-related deaths involving polydrug use are now more prevalent than those involving only opioids. What often goes unnoticed is that deaths involving more than one substance are increasing more rapidly among Black Americans than Whites. Unfortunately, little research attention is paid to understanding opioid-related polydrug use patterns among Black Americans. As a result, less is known regarding which drug combinations are most common among this population and their reasons for co-using certain drugs. Therefore, the objective of this mixed methods study was to identify which substances were most commonly co-used with opioids among Black Americans, while also capturing their motives for combining opioids with other drugs. This study used data from the Florida Minority Health Study, a mixed-methods project that included online surveys (n = 303) and qualitative in-depth interviews (n = 30) of Black Americans who misuse opioids. Data collection was conducted from August 2021 to February 2022 throughout Southwest Florida. Analyses revealed that opioids were most commonly combined with alcohol, cocaine, and methamphetamine, respectively. Opioids were co-used with alcohol in an attempt to enhance the desired effect (i.e., intoxication), while stimulants and opioids were combined to counteract the undesirable side effects of the other. This study begins to answer the question of which/why substances are combined with opioids among Black Americans and should inform behavioral health interventions targeted at this population. Data on this topic are especially timely as the United States goes through the current fourth wave of the opioid crisis that is characterized by deaths due to polydrug use. These findings invite further study using nationally representative data to determine the extent to which polydrug using patterns differ across racial/ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khary K Rigg
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
| | - Michael A Weiner
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Ethan S Kusiak
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
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Oyler DR, Knudsen HK, Oser CB, Walsh SL, Roberts M, Nigam SR, Westgate PM, Freeman PR. Equity of overdose education and naloxone distribution provided in the Kentucky HEALing Communities Study. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2024; 10:100207. [PMID: 38283913 PMCID: PMC10821613 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Background Opioid overdoses differentially affect demographic groups. Strategies to reduce overdose deaths, specifically overdose education and naloxone distribution (OEND), are not consistently delivered equitably. Methods The HEALing Communities StudySM (HCS) is a cluster-randomized trial designed to implement evidence-based practices, including OEND, to reduce overdose deaths across communities. Individuals receiving OEND in eight Kentucky counties between January 2020 and June 2022 provided demographics and overdose history. Recipient characteristics were compared to opioid overdose decedent characteristics to evaluate whether OEND was equitably delivered to the target population. Recipient characteristics were also analyzed based on whether OEND was delivered in criminal justice, behavioral health, or health care facilities. Results A total of 26,273 demographic records were analyzed from 137 partner agencies. Most agencies were in behavioral health (85.6 %) or criminal justice sectors (10.4 %). About half of OEND recipients were male (50.6 %), which was significantly lower than the 70.3 % of overdose decedents who were male, (p<0.001). OEND recipients tended to be younger than overdose decedents, but there were not significant differences in race/ethnicity between OEND recipients and overdose decedents. Over 40 % of OEND recipients had overdosed, and 68.9 % had witnessed a prior overdose. There were notable differences across facility types, as males and Black individuals accounted for fewer OEND recipients in addiction treatment facilities compared to jails. Conclusion Although OEND recipients' demographics resembled those of decedents, specific attention should be paid to ensuring equitable OEND access. Variation in OEND uptake by facility type may reflect biases and barriers to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas R. Oyler
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Hannah K. Knudsen
- Department of Behavioral Science and Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Carrie B. Oser
- Department of Sociology and Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Sharon L. Walsh
- Department of Behavioral Science and Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Monica Roberts
- Substance Use Priority Research Area, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Shawn R. Nigam
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Philip M. Westgate
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Patricia R. Freeman
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Martin SE, Hughes TD, Roller J, Ferreri SP. Assessing pharmacists' knowledge, attitudes, and practices of opioid management within different patient populations. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2024; 64:414-421.e1. [PMID: 38049067 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2023.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racial disparities in drug overdose exist, with black, indigenous, and Hispanic individuals experiencing higher rates of opioid overdose deaths. Opioid use disorder prevention services, such as opioid deprescribing and naloxone dispensing, have been identified as ways to prevent opioid overdose. Pharmacists can help use these strategies, but racial disparities in use exist. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate North Carolina (NC) pharmacist knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of opioid management practices, including opioid deprescribing and naloxone dispensing, across different racial and ethnic groups. METHODS This was a prospective, cross-sectional study conducted through a Web-based KAP survey distributed via e-mail to all NC pharmacists using a modified Dillman's method. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze demographics and pharmacist KAP data. Attitudes data were further analyzed using one-way analysis of variance tests and Tukey's post hoc analyses. RESULTS After applying exclusion criteria, 527 participants were eligible for analysis; 254 of these individuals completed the entire survey. The survey response rate was 15.3% and respondents were mostly female (59.1%) and white (86.6%). Approximately half of pharmacists knew the correct opioid morphine milliequivalent cutoffs considered to be high risk (47.7%) and not to be exceeded (51.9%). When asked about chronic opioid statistics within the United States, respondents overestimated that 23.70% of patients on chronic opioid therapy receive naloxone (SD = 18.93%). Pharmacists believed that black patients were more likely to adhere to an opioid taper than any other race or ethnicity and Hispanic patients were more likely to adhere to naloxone treatment than any other race or ethnicity. Finally, 91% of pharmacists knew what an opioid taper was, but 77% of pharmacists had never designed one. CONCLUSIONS Gaps in knowledge may contribute to further disparities in opioid management. Pharmacists' attitudes may contribute to biases in opioid management practices and practices related to opioid deprescribing may limit the pharmacists' current role. More education is needed so pharmacists can play an increased role in opioid management across all patient populations.
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Han B, Compton WM, Einstein EB, Elder E, Volkow ND. Pregnancy and Postpartum Drug Overdose Deaths in the US Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic. JAMA Psychiatry 2024; 81:270-283. [PMID: 37991773 PMCID: PMC10918496 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2023.4523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Importance Knowledge about characteristics of US pregnancy-associated decedents is needed to guide responses. Objective To examine individual sociodemographic characteristics and residing county's health care resources and socioeconomic factors among pregnancy-associated overdose decedents in comparison with obstetric decedents and overdose decedents who were not pregnant in the past year. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional, exploratory study included 1457 pregnant and postpartum overdose decedents, 4796 obstetric decedents, and 11 205 nonpregnant overdose decedents aged 10 to 44 years from 2018 to 2021. Data were analyzed August 2023. Exposures Decedents from the 2018-2021 Multiple Cause of Death Files linked to the 2021 Area Health Resources Files and the 2018-2021 County Health Rankings data at the county level. Main Outcomes and Measures Pregnancy-associated deaths were defined as deaths during pregnancy or within 1 year of pregnancy termination. This study focused on unintentional drug overdoses or drug overdoses with undetermined intent involving the most common psychotropic drugs of misuse. Results From 2018 to 2021, across the pregnancy-postpartum continuum, pregnancy-associated overdose mortality ratios consistently increased among women aged 10 to 44 years. Mortality ratio more than tripled among pregnant and postpartum women aged 35 to 44 years from 4.9 (95% CI, 3.0-8.0) per 100 000 mothers aged 35 to 44 years with a live birth in January to June 2018 to 15.8 (95% CI, 12.3-20.4) in July to December 2021 (average semiannual percentage changes, 15.9; 95% CI, 8.7-23.6; P < .001). Compared with pregnant obstetric decedents, pregnant overdose decedents had increased odds of being aged 10 to 34 years (75.4% vs 59.5%; range of odds ratios [ORs], 1.8 [95% CI, 1.3-2.5] for ages 10 to 24 years to 2.2 [95% CI, 1.7-2.8] for ages 25 to 34 years), being non-college graduates (72.1% vs 59.4%; range of ORs, 2.7 [95% CI, 1.7-4.3] for those with some college education to 3.9 [95% CI, 2.4-6.1] for those with less than high school education), being unmarried (88.0% vs 62.1%; OR, 4.5; 95% CI, 3.7-6.0), and dying in nonhome, non-health care settings (25.9% vs 4.5%; OR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.8-3.6) and were associated with decreased odds of dying in health care settings (34.7% vs 77.6%; range of ORs, 0.1 [95% CI, 0.1-0.1] for those who died in hospital inpatient settings to 0.4 [95% CI, 0.3-0.6] for those who died in hospital outpatient/emergency room settings). Conclusions and Relevance From 2018 to 2021, the mortality ratio more than tripled among pregnant and postpartum women aged 35 to 44 years, consistent with increases in overdose mortality across US populations. Most pregnancy-associated overdose deaths occurred outside health care settings, indicating the need for strengthening community outreach and maternal medical support. To reduce pregnancy-associated overdose mortality, evidence-based interventions are urgently needed at individual, health care, local, and national levels, along with nonpunitive approaches incentivizing pregnant and postpartum women to seek substance use disorder treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Han
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Wilson M. Compton
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Emily B. Einstein
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Emerald Elder
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nora D. Volkow
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Keyes KM, Mauro PM. Measuring progress in publishing scholarship in Drug and Alcohol Dependence on race, ethnicity, and health equity in substance use disorder incidence and outcomes. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 256:111111. [PMID: 38388300 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Keyes
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, United States.
| | - Pia M Mauro
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, United States
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Lopez AA, Luebke JM, Redner R, Abusbaitan H, Tarima S. Substance Use Overdose Deaths Among Black and Indigenous Women in Wisconsin: A Review of Death Certificate Data From 2018 to 2020. J Addict Med 2024; 18:153-159. [PMID: 38180867 PMCID: PMC10939923 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We are in the midst of an overdose epidemic that has grown during the concurrent COVID-19 pandemic. In Wisconsin, overdose deaths increased 11-fold from 2000 to 2020, with over 1200 deaths in 2020. Because of disparities in substance use initiation, relapse, and treatment success among racially minoritized women, this study's purpose was to investigate overdose death rates among Black and Indigenous women in Wisconsin from 2018 to 2020. METHODS Overdose death rates were examined under the following parameters: sex, race (Black, Indigenous, White), age, year, and manner of death. Logistic regression analysis was also conducted looking at death count data, with race, age, and year as potential predictor variables. RESULTS Death rates (per 100,000) in 2018 were 14.1 (12.6-15.5) for White women, 20.8 (14.7-26.9) for Black women, and 26.5 (10.0-42.9) for Indigenous women; these rates increased in 2020 to 16.4 (14.8-17.9), 32.5 (25.0-40.0), and 59.9 (35.8-84.0) for White, Black, and Indigenous women, respectively. Regression findings illustrated that being Black or Indigenous and aged 15 to 44 or 45 to 64 years were significantly more likely to die from most causes of death (any drug, any opioid, prescription opioid, heroin, synthetic opioids, and cocaine; adjusted odds ratios > 1.25, P s < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS This study confirms that deaths in Wisconsin are disproportionately higher in female minoritized populations. Understanding the complex intricacies between the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic coupled with barriers to treatment access or acceptability in these populations is urgently needed. It will take a multipronged approach to address the overdose epidemic and better serve these marginalized, vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa A. Lopez
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | | | - Ryan Redner
- Behavior Analysis and Therapy, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Hanan Abusbaitan
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Sergey Tarima
- Division of Biostatistics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Rodriguez M, McKenzie M, McKee H, Ledingham EM, John K, Koziol J, Hallowell BD. Differences in Substance Use and Harm Reduction Practices by Race and Ethnicity: Rhode Island Harm Reduction Surveillance System, 2021-2022. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2024; 30:E84-E93. [PMID: 38153310 PMCID: PMC10872563 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT In the United States, minority populations are disproportionately affected by the overdose epidemic, have higher mortality rates, and unequal access to harm reduction and treatment services. OBJECTIVE This analysis aims to better understand harm reduction utilization and substance use patterns among minority populations to improve overdose outreach and prevention initiatives in Rhode Island. DESIGN The present analysis used data from the Harm Reduction Surveillance System from January 2021 to December 2022 (N = 393). Chi-square tests and multivariable regression models were used to investigate differences in substance use behaviors by race and ethnicity. SETTING Rhode Island. PARTICIPANTS Participants include individuals who self-reported the use of illicit drugs, currently reside in Rhode Island, and were older than 18 years. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Methods of drug use and uptake of harm reduction practices. RESULTS Among survey participants, 41% were non-Hispanic White, 57% were aged 25 to 44 years, 62% identified as male, and 95% had health insurance coverage. Most participants reported smoking as their method of drug use (90%) and harm reduction practices were underutilized by all race and ethnicity groups. Fewer non-Hispanic Black participants reported carrying naloxone compared to the other race and ethnicity groups. Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic participants were significantly less likely to inject drugs compared with non-Hispanic White participants (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.04-0.45) (AOR = 0.40; 95% CI, 0.18-0.90). CONCLUSIONS Smoking was the most common self-reported method of substance administration for all participants, whereas injection was more prevalent among non-Hispanic White participants. There is a continued need for minority-led and culturally informed harm reduction and treatment services for minority populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- McClaren Rodriguez
- Substance Use Epidemiology Program, Center for Health Data Analysis, Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, Rhode Island (Mss Rodriguez, Ledingham, and St. John and Dr Hallowell); Preventing Overdose and Naloxone Intervention (PONI), The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island (Mss McKenzie and McKee); and Drug Overdose Prevention Program, Center for Health Data Analysis, Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, Rhode Island (Ms Koziol)
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Rossen LM, Resendez A, Behdin A, Louis MS. Trends and disparities in deaths among young persons in the US during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ann Epidemiol 2024; 91:37-43. [PMID: 38309641 PMCID: PMC10922572 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine changes in death rates by demographic group and by the leading causes of death in U.S. persons 1 to 24 years of age during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A retrospective cross-sectional study using mortality data from the National Vital Statistics System from April 2017 to March 2023. Pre-pandemic death rates were compared with death rates during the pandemic overall, by race/ethnicity, age, sex, and cause group. RESULTS Age-adjusted death rates in young persons 1-24 years of age increased by 14.3% during the pandemic. Injury-related causes accounted for 78.2% of the increase, driven mainly by increases in homicides and unintentional injuries related to drug overdose, firearms, and motor-vehicle traffic crashes. Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic teens and young adults experienced the largest increases in deaths overall and across the leading causes of death. CONCLUSIONS During the COVID-19 pandemic, injury-related causes accounted for the majority of the increases in deaths in children and young adults, driven mainly by firearms, drug overdoses, and motor vehicle traffic crashes. Findings highlight the importance of understanding the drivers of these marked increases in injury-related mortality and the need for injury prevention efforts among children even in the context of an infectious disease pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Rossen
- Division of Research and Methodology, National Center for Health Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Hyattsville, MD, United States.
| | - Adriana Resendez
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, United States
| | - Amanda Behdin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Michael St Louis
- Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
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45
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Falade-Nwulia O, Ward K, Wagner KD, Karimi-Sari H, Hsu J, Sulkowski M, Latkin C, Nwulia E. Loneliness and fearfulness are associated with non-fatal drug overdose among people who inject drugs. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297209. [PMID: 38381763 PMCID: PMC10880973 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs (PWID) experience high rates of drug overdose death with the risk of mortality increasing after each non-fatal event. Racial differences exist in drug overdose rates, with higher rates among Black people who use drugs. Psychological factors may predict drug overdose. METHODS Cross-sectional data from a survey administered to PWID in Baltimore, MD enrolled in a social network-based intervention were analyzed. Linear regression methods with generalized estimating equations were used to analyze data from indexes and network members to assess for psychological factors significantly associated with self-reported number of lifetime drug overdoses. Factors associated with number of overdoses were assessed separately by race. RESULTS Among 111 PWID enrolled between January 2018 and January 2019, 25.2% were female, 65.7% were Black, 98.2% reported use of substances in addition to opioids, and the mean age was 49.0 ± 8.3 years. Seventy-five individuals (67.6%) had a history of any overdose with a mean of 5.0 ± 9.7 lifetime overdoses reported. Reports of feeling fearful (β = 9.74, P = 0.001) or feeling lonely all of the time (β = 5.62, P = 0.033) were independently associated with number of drug overdoses. In analyses disaggregated by race, only the most severe degree of fearfulness or loneliness was associated with overdose among Black participants, whereas among White participants, any degree of fearfulness or loneliness was associated with overdose. CONCLUSIONS In this study of PWID loneliness and fearfulness were significantly related to the number of reported overdose events. These factors could be targeted in future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwaseun Falade-Nwulia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Kathleen Ward
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Karla D. Wagner
- School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, United States of America
| | - Hamidreza Karimi-Sari
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey Hsu
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Mark Sulkowski
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Carl Latkin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Evaristus Nwulia
- Department of Psychiatry, Howard University, Washington, DC, United States of America
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Goodman-Meza D, Shoptaw S, Hanscom B, Smith LR, Andrew P, Kuo I, Lake JE, Metzger D, Morrison EAB, Cummings M, Fogel JM, Richardson P, Harris J, Heitner J, Stansfield S, El-Bassel N. Delivering integrated strategies from a mobile unit to address the intertwining epidemics of HIV and addiction in people who inject drugs: the HPTN 094 randomized controlled trial protocol (the INTEGRA Study). Trials 2024; 25:124. [PMID: 38360750 PMCID: PMC10870682 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07899-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons with opioid use disorders who inject drugs (PWID) in the United States (US) face multiple and intertwining health risks. These include interference with consistent access, linkage, and retention to health care including medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), HIV prevention using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Most services, when available, including those that address substance misuse, HIV prevention, and STIs, are often provided in multiple locations that may be difficult to access, which further challenges sustained health for PWID. HPTN 094 (INTEGRA) is a study designed to test the efficacy of an integrated, "whole-person" strategy that provides integrated HIV prevention including antiretroviral therapy (ART), PrEP, MOUD, and STI testing and treatment from a mobile health delivery unit ("mobile unit") with peer navigation compared to peer navigation alone to access these services at brick and mortar locations. METHODS HPTN 094 (INTEGRA) is a two-arm, randomized controlled trial in 5 US cities where approximately 400 PWID without HIV are assigned either to an experimental condition that delivers 26 weeks of "one-stop" integrated health services combined with peer navigation and delivered in a mobile unit or to an active control condition using peer navigation only for 26 weeks to the same set of services delivered in community settings. The primary outcomes include being alive and retained in MOUD and PrEP at 26 weeks post-randomization. Secondary outcomes measure the durability of intervention effects at 52 weeks following randomization. DISCUSSION This trial responds to a need for evidence on using a "whole-person" strategy for delivering integrated HIV prevention and substance use treatment, while testing the use of a mobile unit that meets out-of-treatment PWID wherever they might be and links them to care systems and/or harm reduction services. Findings will be important in guiding policy for engaging PWID in HIV prevention or care, substance use treatment, and STI testing and treatment by addressing the intertwined epidemics of addiction and HIV among those who have many physical and geographic barriers to access care. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04804072 . Registered on 18 March 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Goodman-Meza
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave., CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1688 USA
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Brett Hanscom
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention (SCHARP), Seattle, WA USA
| | - Laramie R. Smith
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA USA
| | - Philip Andrew
- Family Health International (FHI 360), Durham, NC USA
| | - Irene Kuo
- Milken Institute School of Public Health Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - David Metzger
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | | | - Melissa Cummings
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Jessica M. Fogel
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Paul Richardson
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Jayla Harris
- Family Health International (FHI 360), Durham, NC USA
| | - Jesse Heitner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Sarah Stansfield
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA USA
| | | | - for the HPTN 094 Study Team
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave., CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1688 USA
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention (SCHARP), Seattle, WA USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA USA
- Family Health International (FHI 360), Durham, NC USA
- Milken Institute School of Public Health Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- UTHealth-Houston, Houston, TX USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
- ICAP, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY USA
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA USA
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA USA
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY USA
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Fraimow-Wong L, Martín M, Thomas L, Giuliano R, Nguyen OK, Knight K, Suen LW. Patient and Staff Perspectives on the Impacts and Challenges of Hospital-Based Harm Reduction. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e240229. [PMID: 38386317 PMCID: PMC10884877 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.0229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Harm reduction is associated with improved health outcomes among people who use substances. As overdose deaths persist, hospitals are recognizing the need for harm reduction services; however, little is known about the outcomes of hospital-based harm reduction for patients and staff. Objective To evaluate patient and staff perspectives on the impact and challenges of a hospital-based harm reduction program offering safer use education and supplies at discharge. Design, Setting, and Participants This qualitative study consisted of 40-minute semistructured interviews with hospitalized patients receiving harm reduction services and hospital staff at an urban, safety-net hospital in California from October 2022 to March 2023. Purposive sampling allowed inclusion of diverse patient racial and ethnic identities, substance use disorders (SUDs), and staff roles. Exposure Receipt of harm reduction education and/or supplies (eg, syringes, pipes, naloxone, and test strips) from an addiction consult team, or providing care for patients receiving these services. Main Outcomes and Measures Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes. Results A total of 40 participants completed interviews, including 20 patients (mean [SD] age, 43 [13] years; 1 American Indian or Alaska Native [5%], 1 Asian and Pacific Islander [5%], 6 Black [30%]; 6 Latine [30%]; and 6 White [30%]) and 20 staff (mean [SD] age 37 [8] years). Patients were diagnosed with a variety of SUDs (7 patients with opioid and stimulant use disorder [35%]; 7 patients with stimulant use disorder [35%]; 3 patients with opioid use disorder [15%]; and 3 patients with alcohol use disorder [15%]). A total of 3 themes were identified; respondents reported that harm reduction programs (1) expanded access to harm reduction education and supplies, particularly for ethnically and racially minoritized populations; (2) built trust by improving the patient care experience and increasing engagement; and (3) catalyzed culture change by helping destigmatize care for individuals who planned to continue using substances and increasing staff fulfillment. Black and Latine patients, those who primarily used stimulants, and those with limited English proficiency (LEP) reported learning new harm reduction strategies. Program challenges included hesitancy regarding regulations, limited SUD education among staff, remaining stigma, and the need for careful assessment of patient goals. Conclusions and Relevance In this qualitative study, patients and staff believed that integrating harm reduction services into hospital care increased access for populations unfamiliar with harm reduction, improved trust, and reduced stigma. These findings suggest that efforts to increase access to harm reduction services for Black, Latine, and LEP populations, including those who use stimulants, are especially needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marlene Martín
- University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine
- Division of Hospital Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Laura Thomas
- San Francisco AIDS Foundation, San Francisco, California
| | - Ro Giuliano
- San Francisco AIDS Foundation, San Francisco, California
| | - Oanh Kieu Nguyen
- University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine
- Division of Hospital Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Kelly Knight
- University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of California San Francisco
| | - Leslie W Suen
- University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine
- Division of General Internal Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, University of California, San Francisco
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48
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Xu JJ, Seamans MJ, Friedman JR. Drug overdose mortality rates by educational attainment and sex for adults aged 25-64 in the United States before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, 2015-2021. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 255:111014. [PMID: 38142465 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.111014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dramatic increases in U.S. drug overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids, especially fentanyl, beginning around 2014 have driven a marked progression in overall drug overdose deaths in the U.S., which sharply rose to unprecedented levels amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Disparities in drug overdose deaths by educational attainment (EA) during the fentanyl era of the drug overdose epidemic and its intersection with the COVID-19 pandemic have not been widely scrutinized. METHODS Utilizing restricted-use mortality data from the National Vital Statistics System and population estimates from the American Community Survey, we estimated annual national age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) from drug overdoses jointly stratified by EA and sex for adults aged 25-64 from 2015 to 2021. State-level AAMRs in 2015 and 2021 were also estimated to examine the geographic variation in the cumulative evolution of EA-related disparities over the course of the analysis period. RESULTS Nationally, AAMRs rose fastest among persons with at most a high school-level education, whereas little to no change was observed for bachelor's degree holders, widening pre-existing disparities. During the analysis period, the difference in national AAMRs between persons with at most a high school-level education and bachelor's degree holders increased from less than 8-fold (2015) to approximately 13-fold (2021). The national widening of EA-related disparities accelerated amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and they widened in nearly every state. Among non-bachelor's degree holders, national AAMRs increased markedly faster for males. CONCLUSIONS The widening disparities in drug overdose deaths by EA are a likely indicator of a rapidly increasing socioeconomic divide in drug overdose mortality more broadly. Policy strategies should address upstream socioeconomic drivers of drug use and overdose, particularly among males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay J Xu
- Department of Biostatistics, Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Marissa J Seamans
- Department of Epidemiology, Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Joseph R Friedman
- Center for Social Medicine and Humanities, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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Chapman SA, Fraimow-Wong L, Phoenix BJ, Tierney M, Spetz J. Perspectives on APRN prescribing of medications for opioid use disorder: Key barriers remain. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 157:209215. [PMID: 37979946 PMCID: PMC11092094 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Deaths from drug overdoses are rising dramatically in the United States. Treatment for opioid use disorders may include behavioral treatments as well as medications for opioid use disorders (MOUD). Buprenorphine can be prescribed by physicians, nurse practitioners (NPs), other advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), and physician assistants (PAs) and required a training and a federal waiver until recently. The number of NP MOUD prescribers grew steadily over the past decade, but research has identified state-level scope of practice regulations as a barrier to NP MOUD prescribing. This article explores the contributions of, and remaining barriers faced by NP and other APRN MOUD prescribers. We describe qualitative findings from a study of NPs and other key stakeholders involved in MOUD treatment in four states with two differing levels of regulatory structure. METHODS In this qualitative study, we conducted site visits and semi-structured interviews with NPs and other APRNs, physicians, clinic managers, and regulators in four states including New Mexico and West Virginia (full practice authority for NPs), and Ohio and Michigan (which require physician supervision). Interview notes were entered into a qualitative software package and coded and reviewed by two members of the research team. Data were grouped into key themes. RESULTS A total of 76 participants participated in individual or small group interviews in the four states. We found key themes and several subthemes that describe NP practice in MOUD. Participants described key contributions of NP engagement in MOUD, including increasing access, serving rural areas, the unique role of psychiatric NPs, and the value of the nursing model of care in working with people with substance use disorders (SUD). Participants also identified barriers including scope of practice regulations, other regulatory barriers, stigma, and lack of supportive services to address psychosocial needs. CONCLUSIONS The waiver requirements were eliminated at the end of 2022 in federal budget legislation. Other barriers for NP and other APRN prescribers remain and should be addressed in practice, and in state and federal regulations. Research needs to explore the impact of the waiver elimination on MOUD prescribing and access to services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan A Chapman
- University of California San Francisco School of Nursing, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, 490 Illinois Street, 12th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States of America.
| | - Leah Fraimow-Wong
- UCSF School of Medicine, 533 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States of America.
| | - Bethany J Phoenix
- University of California San Francisco School of Nursing, Department of Community Health Systems, 2 Koret Way, 5th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94143-0608, United States of America.
| | - Matthew Tierney
- University of California San Francisco School of Nursing, Department of Community Health Systems, 2 Koret Way, 5th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94143-0608, United States of America.
| | - Joanne Spetz
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 490 Illinois Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94158, United States of America.
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Hsu M, Jung OS, Kwan LT, Jegede O, Martin B, Malhotra A, Suzuki J. Access challenges to opioid use disorder treatment among individuals experiencing homelessness: Voices from the streets. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 157:209216. [PMID: 37981243 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achieving equitable access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) such as buprenorphine is a pressing issue. Evidence suggests disparities in MOUD access based on race and socioeconomic status, further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the drivers behind this access gap remain poorly understood. This study explores barriers to treatment access among individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) experiencing homelessness. METHODS We interviewed 28 individuals in and around the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) Engagement Center, an area known for its high density of active substance use and homelessness. We asked about people's experiences, perceptions, and attitudes toward OUD treatment. We conducted a thematic analysis of our interview data. RESULTS Fifty-four percent of participants sampled were not prescribed MOUD. None of the participants reported having an active prescription of sublingual buprenorphine or buprenorphine/naloxone. White participants were more likely to have been prescribed buprenorphine in the past compared to participants of other races even in this socioeconomically homogeneous sample. Themes that emerged in our data included challenges to accessing MOUD due to reduced services during the COVID-19 pandemic, lost or stolen medications, fewer inpatient withdrawal management beds for women, transportation challenges, fear of adverse effects of MOUD, the perception that taking MOUD replaces one addiction for another, and community disapproval of MOUD. Participants also reported stigma and discrimination based on race, gender, and socioeconomic status. CONCLUSION Systems and individual-level factors contribute to the MOUD treatment gap across race and socioeconomic status. The COVID-19 pandemic posed additional access challenges. This study provides important, actionable insights about the barriers faced by a particularly vulnerable population of individuals with OUD experiencing homelessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Hsu
- Department of Psychiatry, Greater Los Angeles VA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Olivia S Jung
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Li Ting Kwan
- Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Oluwole Jegede
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Bianca Martin
- Division of Addiction Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Aniket Malhotra
- Department of Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Joji Suzuki
- Division of Addiction Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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