Improving opioid use disorder treatment and prevention in rural areas using mobile health clinics and peer support.
Official title: Data-Driven Approaches for Opioid Use Disorder Treatment, Recovery, and Overdose Prevention in Rural Communities via Mobile Health Clinics and Peer Support Services
Funded at Clemson University · NIH-10812747 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how mobile health clinics and support from peers can help people in rural areas get better access to treatment for opioid addiction and stick with it, making it easier for them to overcome challenges like getting to appointments and dealing with stigma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Clemson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Clemson, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $942,574 |
| NIH project number | 1R61DA059892-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10812747 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in rural areas who are struggling with opioid use disorder and face barriers to accessing treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have opioid use disorder or those living in urban areas may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the opioid crisis in rural communities by utilizing mobile health clinics and peer support specialists. It aims to improve access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and enhance treatment retention rates among individuals struggling with opioid addiction. The approach includes providing social support and addressing barriers to care, such as transportation and stigma, which are particularly prevalent in underserved areas. By leveraging data-driven strategies, the project seeks to create effective interventions that can be implemented in these communities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase access to effective treatment for opioid use disorder and reduce overdose rates in rural populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that peer support interventions can improve treatment initiation for opioid use disorder, although evidence for long-term retention remains inconclusive.
Where this research is happening
-
Clemson University
Clemson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rennert, Lior — Clemson University
- Study coordinator: Rennert, Lior
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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.