Improving treatment for opioid and stimulant use in rural areas through peer support

Peer-Delivered, Behavioral Activation Intervention to Improve Polysubstance Use and Retention in Mobile Telemedicine OUD Treatment in an Underserved, Rural Area

NIH-funded research Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-10578063

This study is testing a friendly support program that helps people in rural areas who are dealing with opioid and other substance use issues by using mobile technology to make treatment easier and more rewarding, so they can stay engaged in their recovery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-10578063 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a peer-delivered behavioral activation intervention aimed at enhancing treatment for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD) and polysubstance use in underserved rural areas. By utilizing mobile telemedicine, the study seeks to provide accessible treatment options and improve patient retention rates. The approach focuses on increasing positive reinforcement through rewarding substance-free behaviors, which may help patients engage more effectively in their recovery process. The intervention is designed to address the unique challenges faced by patients in rural settings, where access to care is often limited.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in rural areas who are experiencing opioid use disorder and polysubstance use.

Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with substance use disorders or those who live in urban areas may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve treatment outcomes and retention for patients with opioid and stimulant use disorders in rural communities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with behavioral activation and peer support interventions in improving treatment outcomes for substance use disorders, indicating a promising approach in this context.

Where this research is happening

College Park, 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 2026-06-13 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.