Gender Disparities in Opioid Treatment Progress in Methadone Versus Counseling

Course overview

The article investigates the barriers and facilitators to engagement in opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment among marginalized populations, particularly focusing on women and racial/ethnic minorities, who have higher dropout rates. Through focus groups and interviews, the study identifies stigmatization, discrimination, and lack of culturally responsive care as significant barriers, while strong social support networks are highlighted as key facilitators for continued treatment engagement. The study recommends addressing systemic barriers, incorporating culturally responsive care, and enhancing community-based support to improve treatment outcomes for these vulnerable groups.