NCT07232641 · Boston University
Impact of Federal and State Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) Policy Changes During the Pandemic
(IMPACT)
What this study is about
"Gold-standard" medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) treatment combines FDA-approved medications, primarily methadone and buprenorphine, with behavioral therapies to provide "whole-patient" treatment.
View original scientific description
"Gold-standard" medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) treatment combines FDA-approved medications, primarily methadone and buprenorphine, with behavioral therapies to provide "whole-patient" treatment. Prior to the pandemic, methadone and buprenorphine were subject to greater federal regulations than medications for other substance use disorders, including medication for alcohol use disorder (MAUD), which created barriers to MOUD initiation and retention. These barriers were exacerbated by physical distancing and diminished clinic capacities during the COVID-19 pandemic. To prevent healthcare disruption and expand access to MOUD treatment during the public health emergency, federal and state authorities implemented several MOUD policy changes during the pandemic to reduce barriers to MOUD initiation and retention, which subsequently became permanent. This study is an evaluation of the impacts of these policies on treatment use, retention, and patient outcomes pre- and post-MOUD policy implementation.
Primary outcome measures
Change in MOUD/MAUD Receipt
Time frame: 4 years pre/post policy change
Based on Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes abstracted from the Veterans Administration VA Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW)
Change in MOUD/MAUD Coverage
Time frame: 4 years pre/post policy change
Based on Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes abstracted from the Veterans Administration VA Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW)
Change in MOUD/MAUD Retention
Time frame: 4 years pre/post policy change
Based on Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes abstracted from the Veterans Administration VA Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW)
Change in Behavioral Therapy Receipt
Time frame: 4 years pre/post policy change
Based on Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes abstracted from the Veterans Administration VA Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW)
Change in Behavioral Therapy Count
Time frame: 4 years pre/post policy change
Based on Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes abstracted from the Veterans Administration VA Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW)
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Substance use disorder (alcohol and/or opioid) documented in the Veteran's Health Administration Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW)
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Collaborators
Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations