Use of In-Network Insurance Benefits is Critical for Improving Retention in Telehealth-Based Buprenorphine Treatment

This study assessed the associations between insurance status and 6-month retention of patients with opioid use disorder on telehealth platforms. Patients whose insurance paid for their care were most likely to still be receiving buprenorphine 6 months after starting treatment. Uninsured patients who paid cash were more likely to be in treatment at 6 months than people with insurance that did not cover their care. Findings showed an association between in-network insurance benefits and retention, which may affect the opioid crisis.