State Models for Addressing Opioid Use Disorders: Recovery Support in Integrated Care Settings

Data from 2020 indicates that nearly 75% of the nation’s 91,799 drug overdose deaths involved synthetic opioids, a shift that is consistent with trends indicating a worsening drug overdose epidemic. As the epidemic evolves, states have sought more effective solutions to reduce and treat opioid use disorders (OUD) and prevent overdose. Integrated care models offer an effective solution; a research-based approach to manage chronic conditions like OUD, enhancing access to care and ensuring clients receive individualized services. OUD is a chronic relapsing condition that necessitates integrated forms of health and social service provisions to improve continuity of care.

This issue brief will address two integration approaches that are implemented by states to improve clinical and recovery outcomes for individuals with OUD, the “hub and spoke” and “bridge” models. Both leverage recovery support services that assist individuals and families working toward recovery from substance use challenges through a spectrum of general health, mental health, social, legal and other services. Recovery support services provide assistance in engaging clients in comprehensive care, through their valuable role in supporting a client’s general health and wellbeing and by helping clients live self-directed lives.

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This report was supported by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing’s Center of Excellence for Integrated Health Solutions and funded by a grant award from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and managed by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. The views, opinions and content expressed in this presentation do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or policies of the Center for Mental Health Services, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.