Barriers and Facilitators to Recruitment of a Multifaceted Population of Opioid Use Disorder Community Stakeholders.

Abstract

Background: Opioid use disorder (OUD) research is essential to inform evidence-based responses to the OUD crisis in the United States. Individuals with OUD, their caregivers, and support group leaders are historically difficult to recruit for research studies. The purpose of this study was to describe barriers and facilitators in recruitment during the implementation of a qualitative study that sought to explore stigma, barriers, and facilitators to healthcare.

Method: Researchers engaged in the original study completed a retrospective reflection of their experience recruiting members of the OUD community. Recruitment data were analyzed thematically, and facilitators and barriers for recruitment were identified.

Results: Three key barriers to recruitment were identified: choice of community partners, access to technology, and impractical incentives. One key facilitator to recruitment was identified: being patient yet persistent and flexible.

Conclusion: Investigators must design research studies mindful of avoiding societal privilege and cognizant of the lens of the individual living with OUD.