Advancing emergency department–initiated buprenorphine

Abstract

Opioids are the main driver of drug overdose deaths in the United States, and there has been a marked increase in opioid-related overdoses during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Many emergency departments (EDs) across the country are implementing ED-initiated buprenorphine programs, and this is a method to address and prevent opioid overdoses. Resources are available to overcome barriers and take action.