Table 1.
Barriers | How STATE OBOT program addresses the barriers |
---|---|
Physician competing activities | NCMs meet with patients on a more regular basis and share some of the clinical responsibilities not required to be physician delivered. NCMs routinely confer with physicians regarding patient issues as the need arises. |
Lack of support staff | State supported start up funding and integration of NCMs. Integration of Medical Assistants to work with NCMs. Education and engagement of non-medical staff. |
Inadequate addiction expertise | TTA educates the staff on buprenorphine treatment through a day-long Buprenorphine-101 training. Continued support is provided as needed. Ongoing quarterly trainings for NCMs and Medical Assistants. Ongoing educational updates and sharing of information via email |
Payment issues | FQHCs are able to bill for nursing visits at a comparable rate as they would for other licensed clinical providers. Program revenue provides funding for administrative costs. |
Administrative obstacles | Education on disease and stigma TTA for administrative staff helps with the implementation. Assisted with systems for: tracking, reporting and visits. |