Literature Collection

Numerous barriers exist for patients attempting to access treatment for opioid-use disorder and/or naloxone, with geographical, racial, and age-related differences exacerbating these hardships.

Opioid use disorders (OUDs) are receiving significant attention in the U.S. as a public health crisis. Access to treatment for OUDs is essential and was expected to improve following implementation of the federal parity law and the Affordable Care Act. This study examines changes in coverage and management of treatments for OUDs (opioid treatment programs (OTPs) as a covered service benefit, buprenorphine as a pharmacy benefit) before, during, and after parity and ACA implementation. Data are from three rounds of a nationally representative survey conducted with commercial health plans regarding behavioral health services in benefit years 2003, 2010, and 2014. Data were weighted to be representative of health plans' commercial products in the continental United States (2003 weighted N = 7,469, 83% response rate; 2010 N = 8,431, 89% response rate; and 2014 N = 6,974, 80% response rate). Results showed treatment for OUDs was covered by nearly all health plan products in each year of the survey, but the types and patterns varied by year. Prior authorization requirements for OTPs have decreased over time. Despite the promise of expanded access to OUD treatment suggested by parity and the ACA, improved health plan coverage for treatment of OUDs, while essential, is not sufficient to address the opioid crisis.

This research surveyed Tier 3 (specialist, multidisciplinary) adult weight management services in England commissioned for the National Health Service (NHS) by Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) across England in financial year 2022-2023. A survey of public health services commissioned by ICBs gathered via freedom of information requests. All 42 ICBs in England surveyed between September and December 2023. Outcome measures were: whether or not there was Tier 3 provision, the type of Tier 3 services provided, the estimated number of patients referred and treated, and the relation of referral rates to measures of deprivation. We had a 100% response rate; five reported no Tier 3 provision. Using regional data and estimates of eligibility for referral to Tier 3 management, only 0%-1.1% of those eligible were referred. Referral rates exclusively to Tier 3 services showed no correlation with the Index of Multiple Deprivation IMD (R (2) = 0.27; p = 0.21). Four services commissioned appeared not to meet the definition of a Tier 3 service. Provision of Tier 3 services in England is inadequate and variable and currently fails to meet the needs of the population. Many areas with high levels of deprivation provide the most limited access. Even where commissioned, some services do not meet commissioning guidelines. Action is required to implement Health Service Policy and to ensure obesity services conform with clinical need and national guidelines.