Physician Assistants' Interest in Prescribing Buprenorphine for Opioid Addiction

Abstract

Under current legislation, only certified physicians can prescribe buprenorphine for opioid addiction. Due to geographic maldistribution and the limited number of certified physicians, patients in rural areas may have to travel large distances to receive treatment. Allowing PAs to prescribe buprenorphine may provide treatment to a larger population. This study investigated Kansas PAs' interest in prescribing buprenophine for opioid addiction treatment and their opinions regarding legislative changes allowing PAs to prescribe buprenorphine. Surveys were sent to all practicing PAs in Kansas. Results were collected and analyzed in a non-identifiable format. The majority of respondents reported supporting legislative changes allowing PAs to prescribe buprenorphine for opioid addiction. Of those practicing in primary care, 29% reported interest in becoming certified.