Study Uncovers Attitudes of Ohio Primary Care Providers Toward Treatment of Diabetes and Opioid Use Disorder

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open titled "Health Care Professional Willingness to Treat Opioid Use Disorder vs. Type 2 Diabetes in Primary Care" provides new insights into how primary care providers in Ohio perceive and approach treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) compared to type 2 diabetes. Led by Dr. Berkeley Franz of Ohio University, the research surveyed nearly 400 primary care professionals, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, across Ohio, a state heavily impacted by the opioid crisis, especially in rural regions with limited access to specialized addiction services.

The study employed clinical vignettes describing patients with either diabetes or OUD, asking providers about their treatment intentions. Surprisingly, while providers expressed greater empathy for OUD patients, they were less likely to personally initiate treatment for opioid addiction. Instead, most tended to refer OUD patients to specialists or abstinence-based programs, despite the availability of effective, FDA-approved medications that can be prescribed within primary care settings.

Interestingly, providers viewed patients with OUD as less responsible for their condition than those with diabetes, yet they hesitated to treat OUD directly. "Diabetes was perceived as harder to manage but more within the patient's control," noted Dr. Franz. The reluctance to treat OUD may stem from stigma and a misconception that addiction treatment does not belong in primary care — a significant barrier to expanding access.

The study also found that providers rated the likelihood of stabilizing OUD as higher than for diabetes, but this did not translate into willingness to treat. Co-investigator Dr. Lindsay Dhanani highlighted that tackling such stigma and misconceptions through training could improve treatment engagement. The researchers emphasize that both conditions require ongoing management and that primary care providers are ideally positioned to address multiple chronic illnesses, including addiction.

With Ohio ranking 12th nationally in overdose deaths and experiencing particularly high rates in southern Ohio, expanding treatment in primary care is vital. The study suggests approaches such as peer mentorship programs and organizational changes like flexible appointment scheduling, to better equip providers to deliver addiction care.

The findings underscore a need for integrated care models, particularly in rural and underserved areas, where primary care providers often serve as the primary or sole health access point. The team advocates for increased training and organizational support to normalize addiction treatment within primary care, ultimately reducing stigma and improving patient outcomes.

As the opioid epidemic continues to burden Ohio and beyond, this study highlights a crucial step towards enhancing primary care’s role in managing complex health conditions, including substance use disorders and diabetes.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-reveals-attitudes-ohio-primary-diabetes.html