Comparing the Care, Distance Traveled and Health Workforce Clinician Mix for Rural and Urban Commercially Insured Patients with Opioid Use Disorder

Abstract

Opioid use disorder (OUD) continues to affect rural communities, where access to treatment like is limited by clinician shortages and long travel distances. Using commercial claims data, this study compares treatment for rural and urban patients with OUD, describing the number of visits, the types of clinicians providing care, and the distance patients traveled to access care.

Authors:

Andrilla, CHA, Woolcock SC, Garberson LA, Graves JM

Journal/Publisher:

WWAMI Rural Health Research Center, University of Washington

Edition:

Apr 2026.

Documents:

Policy Brief

Citation:

Andrilla, CHA, Woolcock SC, Garberson LA, Graves JM. Comparing the Care, Distance Traveled and Health Workforce Clinician Mix for Rural and Urban Commercially Insured Patients with Opioid Use Disorder. WWAMI Rural Health Research Center, University of Washington. Apr 2026

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Treatment, Provider, and Cost Differences for Rural and Urban Patients with Opioid Use Disorder Across the U.S.