Processes of care during a randomized trial of office-based treatment of opioid dependence in primary care

Improving office-based treatment of opioid dependence requires an evaluation of processes of care. We evaluated the care provided by physicians to opioid dependent patients during a trial of office-based methadone maintenance. We conducted chart audits and ajocus group. Audits idenified lapses in monitoring of urine toxicology results and paperwork completion. The focus group identified the logistics of dispensing, the receipt of urine toxicology results difficulties arranging psychiatric services, communications with the opioid treatment program, and non-adherence to medication as problematic. Strategies to support logistical aspects of office-based care should be developed. Chart audits and mentoring should be considered as a mechanism to foster quality care. These processes of care are likely to require attention for treatment using methadone or buprenorphine.