Community Voices on Opioid Misuse Prevention, Treatment and Service Gaps: A Mixed-Method Study

Community involvement and input are critical for addressing public health concerns, such as supporting opioid-use prevention and intervention (e.g., reducing opioid overdose-related deaths). Less is known about the perceived priorities surrounding prevention, treatment, and other unmet needs for residents in higher risk urban communities. We gathered both quantitative and qualitative input on opioid-use-related concerns and recommendations from 430 urban community members through an online survey between late 2024 and early 2025, aiming to characterize the perspectives of participating community members on opioid-use prevention needs and inform intervention strategies. Quantitatively, survey respondents indicated that opioid-use problems were perceived as a significant concern in the community and that neighborhood conditions and diminishing feelings of safety negatively impacted their quality of life. Thematic analysis of qualitative responses provided insight into community concerns and suggestions regarding mental health support and opioid-use treatment, as well as a desire for greater community involvement and stigma reduction. In particular, awareness as well as availability, access, and coordination of options and services were themes that highlighted a disconnect between available programming and community utilization. Results highlight the importance of stakeholder engagement, barriers to sustained change, and ideas for supporting evidence-based practice uptake and subsequent clinical impact.