Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Despite recent efforts by the federal government to remove barriers for doctors prescribing medication to address opioid addiction, patients still face challenges in accessing treatment, according to healthcare professionals in Philadelphia.
In her practice, Dr. Lowenstein highlighted the consequences patients face when encountering obstacles in obtaining medication. She emphasized the importance of aligning treatment guidelines with the most up-to-date evidence to prevent setbacks that could jeopardize patients’ recovery.
Nicole O’Donnell, a certified recovery specialist at Penn Medicine’s Center for Addiction Medicine and Policy, shared insights into the difficulties patients experience in maintaining continuity of care. O’Donnell emphasized the need for a safety net for individuals who have previously accessed treatment but face setbacks due to missed appointments or incarceration, putting them at risk of fatal overdose.
Denise Botcheos, director of behavioral health services at Prevention Point, explained the improvements made in treatment programs since Lowenstein’s study. Botcheos highlighted the shift in approach, with doctors no longer needing to spend excessive time convincing patients to try medications or address fears of withdrawal. She noted an increase in knowledge sharing among healthcare professionals, leading to more informed decision-making and improved patient outcomes.
Overall, the insights shared by healthcare professionals in Philadelphia underscore the ongoing challenges in the treatment of opioid addiction and the importance of continuously updating practices to align with the latest evidence-based guidelines. By addressing barriers to care and embracing new approaches, the healthcare community aims to provide better support for patients on their path to recovery.