Predicting Willingness to Use MOUD: An Application of the Theory of Reasoned Action and Theory of Planned-Behavior

This study applied the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) and Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to assess predictors of willingness to use three medications (methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone) for opioid use disorder (MOUD), among people who use opioids (PWUOs). A single assessment survey, with measures aligned to the TRA/TPB were administered to 235, majority male, predominately White, PWUOs attending syringe services programs (SSPs) in the Southeastern United States. Hierarchical multiple regressions were used to analyze predictors of willingness to take each type of MOUD. Findings partially supported the TRA but not TPB, with positive attitudes associated with greater willingness to use all three types of MOUD: pinpointing to the value of SSPs as a low threshold hub for treatment engagement.