Peer services support improved participation in treatment for opioid use disorder.

Background

While access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder (OUD) has increased, people with substance use disorders (SUD) still face significant challenges in maintaining ongoing treatment and accessing services that prevent relapse and support recovery goals. Peer support services have been shown to improve treatment engagement and outcomes, as well as reduce hospitalizations. This study examined the effectiveness of combining peer support services with MAT compared to treatment as usual without peer support.

Findings

This study compared electronic medical records of two groups of clients seeking OUD treatment at a medical facility to assess engagement in treatment. One group enrolled in a Certified Recovery Support (CRS) program alongside MAT, while the other received MAT only. Findings show that clients in the CRS program were more likely to attend their initial treatment session and participate in more treatment sessions overall.

Program/Policy Takeaways

This study adds to the growing evidence that peer support services improve treatment engagement, retention, and outcomes for people with SUD. Providers and health systems can consider incorporating peer support as a complementary component to treatment with MAT.