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Rural and Urban Availability of Substance Use Treatment Facilities

RUHRC Authors: Smith, AP | Borders, T
Publication Date: 08/28/2026
Full Publication: Rural and Urban Availability of Substance Use Treatment Facilities (opens in new window)

Objective

Characterizing geographic variation in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment availability between rural and urban counties is an important step in understanding structural barriers to SUD treatment in rural communities. Accordingly, the current report examines county-level availability of substance use treatment facilities nationwide. The availability of facilities offering FDA-approved medication treatments for opioid use disorder (MOUD, e.g., methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone) was also assessed as MOUDs have been effective at treating opioid use disorders but may have limited availability in rural areas.

Suggested Citation

Smith AP, Borders TF.  Rural and Urban Availability of Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facilities.  Lexington, KY:  Rural and Underserved Health Research Center; 2026.