Ducharme, L. J., & Abraham, A. J. (2008). State policy influence on the early diffusion of buprenorphine in community treatment programs. Substance abuse treatment, prevention, and policy, 3, 17. https://doi.org/10.1186/1747-597X-3-17 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18570665/ 

This study examines the net impact of efforts by state agencies, including provision of Medicaid coverage, on program-level adoption of buprenorphine as of 2006. The authors have found that inclusion of buprenorphine on state Medicaid formularies appears to be a key element in ensuring that patients have access to this state-of-the-art treatment option. This is a good resource for anyone interested in exploring the differences of access to MOUD treatment for both public sector clients and for-profit sector clients (including privately insured clients). 

Bottom Line: This study looked at how funding for state agencies and the inclusion of buprenorphine on Medicaid effect patients’ access to the medication.