Research Alert: January 16, 2025

A Rural-Urban Analysis of Buprenorphine Therapy During and After Pregnancy Among the Commercially Insured

This analysis describes the frequency of markers of evidence-based prescribing of buprenorphine-containing medications for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) during and surrounding pregnancy in rural and non-rural settings among commercially insured people ages 15-44.

Key Takeaways:

• Treatment adherence and persistence rates for pregnant individuals with OUD stand at approximately 60 percent. This emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to enhance adherence and persistence throughout the course of pregnancy.
• No significant differences were observed in treatment outcomes based on rurality. Possible explanations for this finding are discussed.
• There is insufficient research on treatment outcomes for OUD during pregnancy among both commercially and publicly insured individuals. Additional research is needed for those experiencing insurance churn to inform more effective interventions.
• Evidence-based policies are needed to address the unique needs of pregnant individuals with OUD and enhance overall treatment efficacy.

Additional Resources of Interest:

• More FORHP-funded research on Substance use and treatment
• More information about the ETSU/NORC Rural Health Research Center
• More information from the Rural Health Information Hub's topic guide: Opioid Crisis