2021

During the COVID-19 pandemic, opioid treatment programs (OTPs) have been given some flexibility in dispensing methadone and using telemedicine and other patient services, such as audio-only telephone visits for individual counseling. Favorable outcomes and better patient care were seen in a Bronx OTP study, covered separately in these pages, but a study of views and responses … [Read more...] about OTP Clinicians’ Responses to Telemedicine and Changes in Methadone Service Delivery During COVID-19: A Qualitative Study

When COVID-19 forced Bronx opioid treatment programs (OTPs) to change the way they operated, the OTPs made dramatic changes and saw better outcomes in just ten weeks. In an article published in March in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, the authors summarize their experiences and share what they learned.  Background  The Bronx has been the epicenter of the … [Read more...] about Reimagining Patient Care: Bronx OTPs Share Lessons Learned During COVID-19

Community Medical Services (CMS), which opened two new opioid treatment programs (OTPs) in Wisconsin and Arizona recently, is the first program in the country to open “Opioid Treatment on Demand” centers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Reaching out to harm reduction agencies is a key focus of CMS’ work, making sure clients know that treatment is available.  "There is … [Read more...] about Community Medical Services Reaches Out To Harm Reduction

A recent study hypothesized that distribution of methadone in Ohio via Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs0and pharmacies left out so many realities facing methadone treatment in the United States. The study, based on “geospatial” research, looked specifically at how close patients are via zip code to opioid treatment programs (OTPs), FQHCs, and pharmacies. Among these … [Read more...] about Flaws In Idea Of Expanding Access To Methadone Via FQHCs And Chain Pharmacy

The Talbott Legacy Centers (TLC) announced the opening of a new opioid treatment program (OTP) in Maryville, Tennessee in April. With service delivery starting April 7, the program will include comprehensive, nonresidential treatment services.  Benjamin M. Roe, M.D. is the medical director. Many residents of Blount County, where the OTP is located, already know Dr. Roe … [Read more...] about New OTP in Tennessee Opens