Perinatal OUD Treatment Provider Understandings of Rural Patients' Experiences

Objectives: To present perspectives of substance use treatment providers offering perinatal opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment in a largely rural, Appalachian region. To demonstrate the extent to which providers sought to understand their patients' experiences accessing treatment and how this understanding informed providers' approach to offering patient-centered care. Methods: A qualitative study combining semi-structured interviews and participant-observation with perinatal substance use treatment providers, conducted within a comprehensive program. Using purposive and opportunistic sampling with key informants (n = 10), a saturation sample was achieved. Data were analyzed using modified Grounded Theory. Results: Perinatal substance use treatment providers had a good understanding of their patients' experiences seeking treatment for opioid use disorder, including being aware of obstacles patients encountered. This understanding allowed providers to better address patients' needs in and out of the clinic. Conclusions: Participants demonstrated a good understanding of what their largely rural, Appalachian patients experienced when attempting to access perinatal OUD treatment. This understanding may enable more patient-centered care.

Automated summary

This study explores the perspectives of substance use treatment providers in offering perinatal opioid use disorder treatment. It shows that providers have a good understanding of the challenges faced by patients seeking treatment and how this understanding informs patient-centered care.