Examining how Medicaid managed care affects opioid use disorder treatment access

Medicaid Managed Care Coverage and Utilization Management of Opioid Use Disorder Treatment

NIH-funded research University of South Carolina at Columbia · NIH-10839479

This study looks at how Medicaid programs in different states affect access to treatment for people struggling with opioid use disorder, helping us understand what policies work best to support their recovery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10839479 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of Medicaid managed care organizations on access to treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD). It aims to understand how different state Medicaid programs cover OUD treatment and the utilization management practices that may limit access. By conducting a multi-state study, the research will analyze how these coverage policies affect patient outcomes and treatment progression. The study will utilize innovative methods to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the treatment landscape across various states.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with opioid use disorder who are enrolled in Medicaid managed care programs.

Not a fit: Patients who are not enrolled in Medicaid or those who do not have opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved access to effective treatments for opioid use disorder for vulnerable populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that improving access to treatment through policy changes can significantly enhance patient outcomes, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.