The role of social work in the opioid epidemic: office-based opioid treatment programs

Soc Work Health Care. 2019 Mar;58(3):339-344. doi: 10.1080/00981389.2018.1564109. Epub 2018 Dec 30.

Abstract

The opioid epidemic is a national emergency in the United States. To meet the needs of individuals diagnosed with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) office-based opioid treatment programs (OBOT) are quickly expanding. However, social workers roles in OBOT programs are not clearly described. This paper will emphasize three roles social workers may fulfill in OBOT programs to combat the opioid crisis.

Keywords: Integrated Care; Medication Assisted Treatment; Office Based Opioid Treatment; Opioid Use Disorder; Social Worker Roles.

MeSH terms

  • Case Management / organization & administration*
  • Humans
  • Opioid Epidemic*
  • Opioid-Related Disorders / drug therapy
  • Opioid-Related Disorders / therapy*
  • Professional Role
  • Social Work / organization & administration*
  • United States / epidemiology