Introduction
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has unveiled intriguing insights into the attitudes of primary care providers in Ohio towards treating opioid use disorder (OUD) compared to type 2 diabetes. The research, led by Dr. Berkeley Franz from Ohio University, highlights the differing perceptions and treatment approaches for these chronic conditions among healthcare professionals.
Study Overview
The study involved nearly 400 primary care professionals across Ohio, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician associates. The research aimed to assess their willingness to treat opioid addiction within primary care settings, particularly in underserved and rural areas where access to specialized addiction care is limited.
Findings on Stigma and Treatment Willingness
Dr. Franz noted that while stigma was expected to play a significant role, the findings were more complex and, in some ways, promising. Participants reviewed simulated clinical notes describing patients with either type 2 diabetes or OUD. Despite expressing empathy towards patients with OUD, providers were less likely to offer direct treatment for OUD, preferring to refer patients to specialists or abstinence-focused programs.
Perceptions of Control and Treatment Complexity
Providers generally perceived OUD as less within the patient’s control compared to diabetes. However, they were still reluctant to treat OUD directly, despite recognizing it as a chronic, relapsing brain disease. Dr. Lindsay Dhanani, co-investigator from Rutgers University, emphasized the complexity of stigma and the need for healthcare professionals to help patients manage these diseases.
Surprising Insights on Disease Stabilization
One of the study’s surprising findings was that participants rated the likelihood of disease stabilization higher for patients with OUD than those with diabetes, yet were still less likely to treat them directly. This suggests a potential training gap in working with OUD patients that needs to be addressed.
Challenges and Barriers in Treating OUD
The reluctance to treat OUD is not solely due to stigma but also perceived incompatibility with primary care. Many providers view addiction treatment as outside the scope of primary care, despite the urgent need for such services in Ohio, a state heavily impacted by the opioid crisis.
Implications for Primary Care and Integrated Treatment
The study underscores the importance of integrating addiction treatment within primary care settings, especially in rural and underserved communities. Primary care providers often serve as the first point of contact for patients who may not have access to specialty care. The researchers advocate for a peer mentorship model to support providers in prescribing medications for OUD.
Conclusion and Future Directions
The findings highlight the need for broader conversations about making primary care more inclusive of addiction treatment. The researchers aim to design and test interventions to reduce stigma and ensure access to life-saving treatments for OUD. By helping providers see addiction treatment as part of their existing care practices, the study hopes to improve outcomes for patients with both OUD and diabetes.
🔗 **Fuente:** https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-reveals-attitudes-ohio-primary-diabetes.html