FC03-06 - Treatment of opioid dependence using a Tele-Psychiatry Model

Abstract

Introduction

Opioid dependence has increased greater that 150% from 1965–2008. Almost 2 Million Americans are currnetly opioid depndent. Approxmately 4.4 million teenagers and adults have used opioid prescription painkillers for nonmedical purposes. Greater than 75% of opioid dependnet patients in the U.S. go untreated. Greater than 60 % of opioid dependent patients don’t seek reatment due to lack of accessibility of treatment centers or programs.

Method

100 opioid dependent patients (illicit street and iatrognenic) volunteered and entered a “TELE-PSYCIATRY MODEL” for treatment of their depencence (age range 19,– 61. 58 males,42 females). Utilizing the Bupernorphen protocol, all patients were intrviewed, examined, induced, and regularly followed, ALL utilizing SECURE VIDEOCONFERENCNG interactive treatment methodologies. No in-person contact was made with any patients.

Results

2 patients dropped out, 98 remain in treatment, and opioid free after a 7 month average. All patients found the Tele Psychiaty model to be acceptable, effective and prefeable.