Medication First Approach

The Missouri Department of Mental Health and Opioid STR/SOR grant partners have developed and disseminated a “Medication First” treatment approach to OUD, analogous to the Housing First approach to chronic homelessness, across dozens of Missouri’s state-funded substance use disorder treatment programs.

Key Principles of Medication First

  1. People with OUD receive pharmacotherapy treatment as quickly as possible, prior to lengthy assessments or treatment planning sessions;
  2. Maintenance pharmacotherapy is delivered without arbitrary tapering or time limits;
  3. Individualized psychosocial services are continually offered but not required as a condition of pharmacotherapy;
  4. Pharmacotherapy is discontinued only if it is worsening the person’s condition.

Resources & Guides

Provider Implementation Guide

A 2021 implementation guide for Missouri providers participating in the State Opioid Response Grant, developed by the MO Department of Mental Health.

Medication First Model

Medication First Model A low-barrier approach to treating Opioid Use Disorders (OUD) that prioritizes immediate access to medication-assisted treatment based on broad scientific consensus.

Missouri Opioid Treatment Agency Directory

A statewide list of agencies providing opioid treatment services across Missouri, including locations and contact information for individuals seeking care.