Improving access to medications for opioid use disorder among unhoused individuals in Montana
Counteracting Structural Barriers to Increase Access to Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) Among Unhoused Montanans
This study is looking to help people in Montana who are experiencing homelessness and struggling with opioid use by trying out new ways to make it easier for them to get the medications they need, with support from nurses and peers at local health programs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Open Aid Alliance NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Missoula, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11167942 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to address the significant barriers that unhoused individuals in Montana face in accessing medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). By implementing three evidence-based interventions, including care based in syringe service programs, a nurse-led model, and peer navigator support, the project seeks to enhance treatment engagement among this vulnerable population. The study will take place at multiple syringe service program sites across urban and rural areas, including those near American Indian Reservations, and will track various measures of treatment engagement and success.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are unhoused individuals in Montana who are struggling with opioid use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who are housed or do not have opioid use disorder may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase access to life-saving medications for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder who are unhoused.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with similar interventions aimed at increasing access to care for underserved populations, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
Missoula, United States
- Open Aid Alliance — Missoula, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ramos, Rebecca — Open Aid Alliance
- Study coordinator: Ramos, Rebecca
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.