This publication is the first in a three-part series on mobile treatment for opioid use disorders and gives an in-depth look at programs in Connecticut and New York.
Various state and local jurisdictions in the United States are implementing mobile models for treating opioid use disorder (OUD). In August 2020, RTI International spoke with six agencies to learn more about their mobile treatment programs. This article is the first in a three-part series on mobile response programs and provides an in-depth look at two of these programs. The first mobile model is an induction-only program that prescribes Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone). This model is implemented by Bridges Healthcare, a state-designated Local Mental Health Authority in Connecticut. The second mobile model is a methadone delivery program that was created because of COVID-19. It was implemented by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC Health) in partnership with the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS). The goal of this series is to inform jurisdictions considering whether a mobile treatment program would work in their communities and to determine what type of model would fit best.