Individual Factors Associated with Opioid Agonist Therapy Retention in Northern Ontario

Objectives: Opioid agonist therapy (OAT) is well accessed in Northern Ontario, but treatment drop-out rates are high, and retention is clearly established as a key indicator of success. Improving retention through identification and targeting of contributing factors could yield better patient outcomes. This study aimed to identify individual factors associated with OAT retention among patients enrolled in Northern Ontario. Method: Forty-five individuals completed face-to-face interviews within 2 weeks of OAT enrolment at an outpatient clinic in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The association of baseline factors with program retention was analyzed at 1, 3, and 6 months postintake. Results: At 1 month, receiving financial support from others and being comfortable with spirituality and beliefs were protective against dropout, while history of criminal conviction was a risk factor (P < 0.05). At 3 months, living at current home for at least i year and receiving financial support from others were protective factors, whereas recent heroin use and recent family conflict were risk factors (P < 0.05). At 6 months, no protective factors were identified, but recent family conflict was a risk factor (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This study identified several individual factors associated with OAT retention among patients enrolled in Northern Ontario. It may be useful to consider these factors in developing targeted risk-reduction and treatment strategies. Overall, this study highlights the need for individualized, whole person care and integration of support services into OAT programs.