New study in collaboration w/ @LarochelleMarc @darshaksanghavi: Among 40,885 insured individuals w/ new opioid use disorder dx, initial treatment w/ "detox" or residential care associated w/ higher costs at 3 months than MOUD or outpatient treatment. https://journals.lww.com/lww-medicalcare/Abstract/9000/Relative_Cost_Differences_of_Initial_Treatment.98278.aspx 1/3

This coupled w/ our prior work showing improved clinical outcomes w/ MOUD suggests treatment “beds” not the answer but rather increased capacity for outpatient management of OUD. To do so we need structural & ideological overhaul w/ care low-threshold & person-centered. 2/3

While "treatment beds" not the answer, having safe place to live & connection to other humans who care clearly matters. As with other complex health conditions we must address social determinants, housing, and dismantling racist, oppressive systems that cause further harm. 3/3