Emergency Department and Hospital Care for Opioid Use Disorder: Implementation of Statewide Standards in Rhode Island, 2017–2018

Abstract

In March 2017, Rhode Island released treatment standards for care of adult patients with opioid use disorder. These standards prescribe three levels of hospital and emergency department treatment and prevention of opioid use disorder and opioid overdose and mechanisms for referral to treatment and epidemiological surveillance. By June 2018, all Rhode Island licensed acute care facilities had implemented policies meeting the standards' requirements. This policy has standardized care for opioid use disorder, enhanced opioid overdose surveillance and response, and expanded linkage to peer recovery support, naloxone, and medication for opioid use disorder.