AI Insight
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati investigated the integration of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment into primary care training clinics, specifically within an internal medicine residency program. The study, published in Academic Medicine, found that embedding addiction treatment into this setting expanded patient access to primary care-based addiction services. Additionally, the approach was associated with a notable increase in physician confidence when managing and treating substance use disorders.
Why it matters
This model of care integration could help address the significant treatment gap for substance use disorders by utilizing existing primary care infrastructure and simultaneously training the next generation of physicians in addiction medicine. Broader adoption of this approach could improve both the availability and quality of addiction treatment in outpatient settings.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have found that embedding addiction treatment into primary care training clinics may be a promising approach to addressing substance use disorders (SUDs). Published in the journal Academic Medicine, the study shows how integrating SUD treatment into an internal medicine resident practice could not only expand access to primary care addiction treatment for patients but also significantly boost physician confidence in treating addiction.