Implementing injectable opioid agonist treatment: a survey of professionals in the field of opioid use disorders

Background Engagement of health care professionals represents an important factor for successful implementation of new practices. To support these professionals' involvement, it is essential to understand their perspective. This study describes the perspective of professionals in the field of opioid use disorder (OUD), in the province of Quebec (Canada), regarding appropriateness of iOAT for their patients and the obstacles to its implementation. Methods A web-based survey was conducted, with 132 OUD professionals (physicians, pharmacists, nurses and counselors). Results 80.3% of respondents report prior knowledge of iOAT, 87.6% are interested in obtaining additional information on iOAT, and 98.1% consider iOAT to be very or partially appropriate for their clientele. In terms of barriers to iOAT implementation, the main obstacles highlighted by respondents pertain to the lack of available or qualified staff, access to appropriate facilities and equipment, and patient transportation. Professionals who perceive iOAT to be very appropriate for their clientele are more likely to report a higher number of patients with biopsychosocial deterioration, to consider themselves to be very familiar with iOAT, and to work in a higher population density area. Conclusions Results highlight feasibility challenges, but support perceived appropriateness of iOAT in a sample of OUD professionals in Quebec.