Pharmaceutical Sciences ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 5-31-2024

Abstract

This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of office-based versus telehealth delivery of buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD). A retrospective chart review of 135 patients at the University of New Mexico Hospital's Addiction and Substance Abuse Program compared retention rates and costs between the two settings. Retention was defined as continuous treatment for at least six months. No statistically significant difference in retention rates was found, with 51% for office-based and 42% for telehealth. However, office-based treatment had higher total costs, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $3,750 per 1% increase in retention. The findings suggest telehealth is a cost-effective alternative, particularly valuable during public health crises. Future research should investigate long-term outcomes and the integration of telehealth into standard practice to optimize treatment accessibility and resource allocation.

Fourth Committee Member

Julie Salvador, PhD

First Committee Member (Chair)

Matthew Borrego, RPh, PhD

Degree Name

Pharmaceutical Sciences

Second Committee Member

Melissa Roberts, PhD

Level of Degree

Masters

Third Committee Member

Snehal Bhatt, MD

Department Name

College of Pharmacy

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Keywords

opioid use disorder, telehealth, office-based treatment, cost-effectiveness, retention rates, buprenorphine treatment.

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