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Telemedicine-delivered treatment interventions for substance use disorders

Summary of the evidence

Rating
  • Unknown effectiveness

A systematic review without meta-analysis (Lin et al 2019, 13 studies) found no evidence of effect of telemedicine-delivered treatment (psychotherapy or pharmacotherapy) interventions for substance use disorders.

Studies examined suggest this type of intervention is an effective alternative, particularly where face-to-face treatment is less available, but more research is needed on their effectiveness.

Details

Note: this evidence summary is only valid for the outcomes, target groups, settings and substances/patterns of use described below.

Name of response option
  • Digital interventions
Desired outcome(s)
  • improve treatment outcomes
  • reduce substance use
Area(s)
  • Treatment
Specific substance or pattern of use
  • alcohol
  • opioids
  • tobacco
Target group(s) or setting(s)
  • communities
  • dual-diagnosis patients
  • emergency department
  • ethnic minority
  • families
  • law enforcement
  • pregnant women
  • PWID – people who inject drugs
  • school
  • women
  • prison
  • young people
  • partygoers/nightlife

References

Explore all resources in the Best practice portal

 

Miniguides

A one-stop-shop for anyone planning or delivering health and social responses.

 

Implementation

Implementation inventories including Xchange, Healthy Nightlife Toolbox, EUPC and EIB

 

Evidence

All of the latest research and evidence on drug-related interventions.

 

Standards

Standards and guidelines for drug-related interventions, aimed at improving their quality.

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