Availability of Opioid Use Disorder Treatments for Veterans with Homelessness
Overview
This study examines the access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) among veterans with a history of homelessness residing in permanent supportive housing (PSH). Despite the effectiveness of MOUD in reducing overdose mortality, significant barriers to access persist in this vulnerable population.
Background
Veterans with a history of homelessness face a heightened risk of overdose and mortality due to opioid use disorder (OUD). Access to effective treatments, such as buprenorphine and methadone, is crucial for improving health outcomes in this population. However, barriers such as stigma and fragmented care hinder the uptake of these life-saving medications.
Data Highlights
The study analyzed data from 10,110 veterans enrolled in the HUD-VASH program with a diagnosis of OUD, utilizing national VA administrative records from 2013 to 2022.
Key Findings
Only a small percentage of veterans with OUD in PSH received MOUD, highlighting significant access gaps.
Barriers to MOUD access included transportation difficulties, stigma, and fragmented care.
Integration of housing and health services may improve MOUD uptake among veterans with OUD.
Racial and ethnic disparities in MOUD receipt were noted, with minority veterans facing greater obstacles.
Federal and VA policy changes during the COVID-19 pandemic expanded access to buprenorphine through telehealth.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare providers should prioritize the integration of MOUD into supportive housing programs to enhance access for veterans with OUD. Addressing structural barriers and implementing data-driven strategies can promote equitable treatment and reduce overdose mortality.
Conclusion
Enhancing access to MOUD for veterans with a history of homelessness is essential for improving health outcomes and reducing mortality. Continued efforts to address barriers and disparities in treatment access are necessary.
A large audit of biomedical publications suggests fabricated references are increasingly appearing in peer-reviewed papers — often in ways that are difficult for reviewers and readers to detect.
