Importance, Barriers, and Facilitators of Medications for Opioid Use Disorder and Overdose Reversal

• In Event: 20820 - Section on Medical Sociology Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 15. Stigma

Abstract

Despite strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) and Opioid Overdose Reversal Medications (OORM), these treatments remain underutilized due to persistent structural and attitudinal barriers. This paper presents qualitative findings from a broader mixed-methods study evaluating a regional peer recovery coach (PRC) intervention for opioid use disorder (OUD). Through interviews with 34 participants—including hospital staff, intervention program leadership, PRCs, and clients—this study explores stakeholder perspectives on the importance of MOUD and OORM, as well as the barriers and facilitators influencing their implementation.

Findings highlight multi-stakeholder recognition of the life-saving and harm reduction benefits of MOUD and OORM. However, multiple barriers limit their accessibility, including regulatory constraints, abstinence-based treatment philosophies that exclude MOUD recipients from recovery services, provider stigma that reduces MOUD referrals, and internalized stigma that discourages individuals from initiating or continuing treatment. Notably, the removal of the X-waiver was seen as an improvement, though stigma remains a significant obstacle. Key facilitators of MOUD and OORM access include timely availability, informed medical providers, and PRCs, who play a crucial role in reducing stigma, providing lived-experience support, and navigating treatment systems.

These findings contribute to the broader literature by emphasizing the need for multi-level stigma reduction initiatives, policy reforms that eliminate restrictions on MOUD recipients, and increased integration of PRCs in healthcare and OUD intervention settings. Addressing internalized stigma, expanding provider education on addiction medicine, and improving public messaging around MOUD as a standard medical treatment are critical next steps. By reshaping policy, practice, and public perception, we can enhance access to evidence-based, compassionate OUD treatment and fully leverage the benefits of MOUD and OORM in harm reduction and recovery efforts.

Authors

• Tracey A. LaPierre, University of Kansas

• Danielle M. Olds

• Stacy Farr

• Kate Vilain

• Maria-Chiara Bellomo

• Holly Hagle