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Rural Health Information Hub

Module 1: Introduction to MOUD

In the United States, rates of opioid misuse and deaths from overdose are climbing. In rural areas, the increasing rate of drug overdose deaths is concerning. As a result, rural-specific strategies for opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment and recovery are urgently needed. Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) is an evidence-based approach that uses medication to treat OUD.

This module provides an overview of MOUD and introduces some of the unique challenges to providing MOUD in rural areas. It provides important background information needed before implementing a MOUD program in a rural community.

For general information on what to consider when starting a rural program, see Creating a Program: Where to Begin in the Rural Community Health Toolkit.

In this module: