Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-2025
Abstract
This summary report presents findings from healthcare provider interviews conducted in 2024 to assess the current landscape of withdrawal management (WM) services in Maine. Sixteen providers, across eight counties and representing a range of substance use disorder (SUD) service types, were interviewed to evaluate capacity, challenges, and opportunities for improvement across the continuum of care. Thematic analysis identified widespread gaps in withdrawal management capacity, especially in ASAM Levels 1.7 to 4.0, with critical shortages in ambulatory and low-intensity residential services. Key barriers included geographic inequities, insufficient infrastructure, long waitlists, inadequate reimbursement, and workforce shortages exacerbated by stigma and provider discomfort. Providers emphasized the lack of "step-down" services following detox, limited support for individuals transitioning between public and private insurance, and persistent social determinants such as transportation and housing instability. The report concludes that expanding withdrawal management services and addressing systemic, financial, and logistical barriers are essential to improving access, continuity, and outcomes for individuals with SUD in Maine.
For more information, please contact Lindsey Smith at m.lindsey.smith@maine.edu
Recommended Citation
Smith, ML., & Rosingana, K. (2025). Feedback on withdrawal management services in Maine from persons with lived expereience. University of Southern Maine, Catherine Cutler Institute, Substance Use Research and Evaluation Unit.
Included in
Health Policy Commons, Policy Design, Analysis, and Evaluation Commons, Substance Abuse and Addiction Commons
Comments
Project: SUPPORT for ME
This project was supported by the State of Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as part of a Cooperative Agreement with funds originating from the Federal Government. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by DHHS or the Federal Government. The Maine DHHS Office of Medicaid Services provided funding for this summary product.