National News, Recovery, Social Support, Treatment

‘Opioid treatment deserts’ abound, study finds

For individuals living in areas without opioid treatment centers, accessing the care they need for long-term recovery can be virtually impossible, according to a new study led by Ohio State University researchers. The study used 2013-2017 data from emergency management services agencies throughout Franklin County.

“The study identified clear opioid treatment deserts that undoubtedly stand in the way of access to needed care and that likely exist throughout the state and the nation. These are areas where treatment providers should be setting up shop – we need a surge of resources into these areas,” said Ayaz Hyder, an assistant professor in Ohio State’s College of Public Health and leader of the study team.

Source: OSU News