Abstract / Summary
ObjectiveThis study aims to explore and better understand current attitudes and barriers among physician associates (PAs) toward naloxone prescribing to inform efforts that support wider adoption of overdose prevention strategies through naloxone prescribing. MethodsThis is a cross-sectional, descriptive survey study with quantitative and qualitative components.This 33question survey was distributed to PAs who have graduated from an accredited PA program via email and social media. ResultsNinety PAs across 34 states and 27 specialties completed the survey.Respondents affirm use of naloxone as a life-saving intervention and support its normalization in the community.Results also identified prescribing barriers and potential opportunities to decrease stigma and increase the prescribing rates of naloxone. ConclusionsPAs demonstrated broadly favorable attitudes toward naloxone and overdose prevention; however, time constraints, concerns regarding patient perceptions, uncertainty regarding state-specific laws, and gaps in confidence were identified as potential barriers to routine prescribing.The results of this survey suggest that further work in developing real-world insights and educating PAs is likely to result in increased naloxone prescribing.