Boosting Patient Retention: Insights from Rural Roads Podcast
Episode Overview
Understanding the difference between treatment engagement and retention is crucial. Patient autonomy should be respected in determining treatment duration. Identifying and addressing patient challenges can improve appointment attendance. Higher medication doses may lead to better retention rates. Creating a non-judgmental environment encourages patient return.
"If a diabetic has cake, you're not going to take their insulin away, right?"
What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? The latest episode of 'Rural Roads - The RCORPodcast' with hosts Tim Rabolt and Dr. C gets into the nitty-gritty of treatment retention for patients battling opioid use disorder. Dr. C kicks things off by clarifying the often-confused concepts of treatment engagement versus retention. It's not just about getting patients to start treatment, but ensuring they stick around long enough to see real benefits.
This episode is packed with practical advice, like respecting patient autonomy and understanding that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to treatment duration. They chat about the hurdles faced by patients, especially in rural communities, where transportation and shifting priorities can make it tough to keep appointments. Dr. C suggests asking patients what their biggest challenge was in getting to their appointment, which could open doors to practical solutions.
There's also a fascinating discussion on how higher doses of medications like buprenorphine and methadone might help with better retention rates. The hosts highlight the importance of creating a non-judgmental environment where patients feel comfortable returning, even if they haven't met their treatment goals. It’s a refreshing take on how healthcare providers can foster a supportive atmosphere that encourages patients to stay on track.
So, if you're curious about how different strategies aid in addiction recovery, this episode is definitely worth a listen. Could these insights change the way you think about treatment retention?