Using telemedicine to provide buprenorphine treatment for people with opioid use disorder in public libraries

Bupe by the Book: Developing and Testing a Tele-Buprenorphine Intervention in Public Libraries with Unstably Housed Persons with Opioid Use Disorder

NIH-funded research San Diego State University · NIH-11052115

This study is testing a new way to help people with opioid use disorder who don't have stable housing by offering buprenorphine treatment at local libraries, making it easier and more comfortable for them to get the care they need.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSan Diego State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Diego, United States)
Project IDNIH-11052115 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop and test a telemedicine intervention called 'Bupe by the Book' that provides buprenorphine treatment to individuals with opioid use disorder who are unstably housed and frequent public libraries. By collaborating with local libraries and health centers, the project seeks to overcome barriers to accessing this effective treatment. The approach includes gathering input from community stakeholders and conducting a pilot trial to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of delivering care in this innovative setting. Patients will be able to receive treatment in a supportive environment that reduces stigma and increases accessibility.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with opioid use disorder who are unstably housed and utilize public libraries.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing opioid use disorder or those who have stable housing may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve access to effective opioid use disorder treatment for vulnerable populations.

How similar studies have performed: Similar approaches using telemedicine for substance use treatment have shown promise, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

San Diego, 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.