Abstract

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has remained popular as a treatment tool for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). Telehealth can decrease barriers to access OUD treatment, especially in rural areas. There is limited data, however, on the specific components of telehealth programs and how these components vary across treatment facilities. The purpose of this study was to describe the patterns of telehealth services among OUD providers in East Tennessee. Specifically, this study identified components-such as group telehealth, virtual intake, and virtual drug screening- that are variably implemented among OUD treatment facilities. We conducted a cross-sectional observational study identifying eligible OUD treatment providers in East Tennessee. Organizations were contacted directly via telephone interviews to assess telehealth availability and components. A scoring system was derived categorizing facilities based on their degree of telehealth adoption and availability. The completed facility interviews demonstrate substantial variation in components of different telehealth programs. Particularly, the adoption of group telehealth, virtual intake, and virtual drug screening is not uniform across treatment facilities in East Tennessee. This research clarifies how telehealth is used for OUD treatment across East Tennessee. Beyond simply assessing availability, the study seeks to push the conversation about OUD towards a more nuanced understanding of the key components of programs.

Keywords:Telehealth; Opioid use disorder; East Tennessee; Geographic access; Substance use treatment; Rural health

Abbreviations:OUD: Opioid Use Disorder; MOUD: Medication for Opioid Use Disorder; SAMHSA: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; MAT: Medicated Assisted Treatment; IRB: Institution Review Board; DUI: Driving Under the Influence