Telehealth model to improve treatment access for rural veterans with substance use disorders

Using Telehealth to Expand Treatment Access for Veterans With Opioid Use Disorder (CDA 18-008)

NA · VA Office of Research and Development · NCT05348317

This study is testing a new telehealth program to help veterans with substance use disorders get better access to treatment and support, especially those living in rural areas.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorVA Office of Research and Development (fed)
Locations1 site (Ann Arbor, Michigan)
Trial IDNCT05348317 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to pilot-test a telehealth-delivered care model for veterans with substance use disorders (SUDs), focusing on increasing treatment utilization and improving outcomes. The approach involves initial engagement and ongoing motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy (MI-CBT) delivered remotely. Stakeholder input will be gathered to refine the model and ensure it meets the needs of both rural and non-rural veterans. The study will take place at the Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are veterans diagnosed with substance use disorders who have access to a telephone and can provide informed consent.

Not a fit: Patients currently receiving SUD psychotherapy or those with substantial mental health instability may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this model could significantly enhance access to treatment for veterans with substance use disorders, particularly in rural areas.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using telehealth for substance use treatment, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Veteran patients at the Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System
* Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) SUD diagnosis and/or substance use on average of 2 days a week over the past month
* Telephone access
* Able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Receiving SUD psychotherapy
* Inability to speak or understand English
* Substantial mental health instability or conditions that preclude informed consent (e.g., acute psychosis, cognitive deficits) or understanding of assessment or program content
* Prior alcohol withdrawal seizures or delirium tremens

Where this trial is running

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Substance Use, Substance Use Disorders, Substance Dependence, Veterans, Telehealth, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rural Health

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.