Mapping Opioid Use Disorder Treatment in Colorado

Nearly four Coloradans died every day from an opioid-related overdose in 2021. Compared to detoxification or counseling without medication, medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) is more effective at keeping individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) in treatment. The Farley Center and the Practice Innovation Program at the University of Colorado conducted a study to identify where there is insufficient buprenorphine treatment provision to meet the needs of Coloradans, calculate the workforce changes necessary to fill these treatment gaps, and offer recommendations to enable targeted resource allocation and better access to care for individuals with OUD.

The study resulted in several products designed for state policymakers, administrators, providers, and community stakeholders. The team has used maps to prioritize recruitment for other initiatives and programs that support practices that increase access to MOUD.

In addition, the Office of Behavioral Health in the Department of Human Services (now the Behavioral Health Administration) used the information to inform its focus in subsequent federal grants, and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has adopted the metrics for its own statewide dashboard of prescribers.

104% 219%

Increase in patients receiving buprenorphine treatment*

Increase in buprenorphine prescribers*

*between 2017 and 2021