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Abstract

To evaluate buprenorphine training methodology, we surveyed physicians who had completed a combined online and in person buprenorphine curriculum. Of 53/70 (76%) survey respondents, 57% were psychiatrists and 40% generalists. On a scale of 1 (very poor) to 7 (superlative), the overall training rated a mean of 5.8. The online course (5.0) rated lower than in person training components (p <.001) except for material that addressed the logistics of office practice. The in person patient interview received the highest rating (mean 6.3, p <.001). The 67% of physicians who intended to prescribe buprenorphine after the training were more likely than hesitant physicians to agree that the course provided enough information (p <.05) and that telephone access to experienced providers would improve their confidence (p <.05). Physicians hesitant to prescribe cited lack of experience as the main barrier (41%), with 24% concerned about induction difficulty and reimbursement. Overall, physicians preferred in person instruction and may benefit from additional experiential training and support after curriculum participation.

Keywords

Buprenorphine training medical education opioid dependence

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Evaluation of a Combined Online and in Person Training in the Use of Buprenorphine

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