EASCO

Evaluating the Adoption of SAMHSA’s Changes in Opioid Treatment by Colorado OTPs

Project Overview:

This statewide research initiative examines how Colorado’s opioid treatment programs (OTPs) are implementing the federal methadone rule changes that took effect on April 2, 2024, which expand access through increased take-home allowances, telehealth initiation, flexible dosing, and broader eligibility criteria. Via a detailed online survey of methadone clinic staff, including administrators, providers, and counselors, the study assesses awareness of the new regulations, operational and clinical impacts such as telehealth adoption, perceived effects on patient access, adherence, and satisfaction, and the challenges programs face during implementation. Through voluntary identification, the project will generate both site-specific and statewide feedback that can be shared directly with participating programs to support practical improvements, highlight best practices, and guide policy and operational decisions that strengthen treatment access and outcomes across Colorado.