Exploring the Demographic and Professional Characteristics of Physicians and Nurse Practitioners Associated With Providing Medication-Assisted Treatment: A Retrospective Observational Study

Researchers used data from electronic license renewals in 2021 to examine what factors affect the likelihood of providing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. Physicians and nurse practitioners who were younger, practiced in a public or community health center, and offered a sliding fee scale in their practice had a greater likelihood of providing MAT. The study builds on previous research showing a lack of mental health services, professional burnout, and stigma associated with lower rates of MAT provision in rural areas, with a further look at organizational and personal barriers to prescribing.