Bridging the gaps: Rural recovery community centers and their role in addressing substance use disorders

Purpose: Recovery community centers (RCCs) offer a range of non-clinical services for individuals in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD). RCCs may play an important role in addressing rural service gaps. This study aims to increase our understanding of how rural RCCs address SUD, including how they serve individuals receiving medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Methods: We conducted a mixed methods study consisting of pre-interview surveys and semi-structured interviews with 12 RCC directors in rural Georgia. The surveys examined organizational and participant characteristics and MOUD attitudes, and the interviews explored rural challenges, strategies to overcome challenges, and community collaborations. We conducted descriptive analyses of the survey data and analyzed interviews using thematic analysis. Results: RCCs serviced an average of 41 new members per month and had an annual budget of $225,407. RCCs provided in-house or linked to many services that addressed social determinants of health. Most participants were in early recovery (<1 year), had criminal legal involvement, and lacked a high school education. In the thematic analysis, transportation and housing were commonly reported challenges. Additionally, RCCs provided essential treatment linkage, were the primary naloxone distributor in the area, and provided in-house mutual help organizations representing alternative recovery pathways. Collaboration with MOUD providers was minimal despite RCC efforts. Directors generally had positive attitudes towards MOUD. Conclusion: Rural RCCs address a range of social determinants of health and may fill gaps in the SUD continuum of care, including harm reduction services, linkage to treatment, and expansion of recovery pathways.