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Treatment of Alcohol Use Problems Among Rural Populations: a Review of Barriers and Considerations for Increasing Access to Quality Care

  • Alcohol (R Leeman and L Hone, Section Editors)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Individuals living in rural areas face unique challenges when accessing services for alcohol-related problems and are at increased risk of experiencing alcohol-related harms. We outline research on rural-urban treatment gaps in alcohol use treatment, identify common barriers to treatment, and provide recommendations for how to address the difficulties faced by this population.

Recent Findings

Globally, individuals living in rural and remote areas are less likely to receive care for alcohol-related concerns compared to those residing in urban areas. Rural areas suffer from insufficient access to specialty providers, and rural residents are likely to experience greater stigma regarding seeking treatment for alcohol-related concerns.

Summary

Given rural-urban disparities in access to treatment for alcohol use concerns, treatment efforts should incorporate stakeholders across the medical system. Telehealth options are particularly promising for increasing access to care. Adaptations should emphasize existing strengths among rural populations, such as strong religious beliefs and close community ties.

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Funding

Investigator effort was partially supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Grants 2020-70028-32728 (Davis) and 2021-70035-35436 (Davis). The USDA had no role in the conception, preparation, or the decision to submit the paper for publication.

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  1. Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA

    Christal N. Davis & Susan E. O’Neill

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Davis, C.N., O’Neill, S.E. Treatment of Alcohol Use Problems Among Rural Populations: a Review of Barriers and Considerations for Increasing Access to Quality Care. Curr Addict Rep 9, 432–444 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40429-022-00454-3

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