April 12, 2024

New Hotline Provides Low-Barrier Medication for Opioid Use Disorder

Thanks to a new 24/7 "bup" prescribing hotline, it's easier than ever for people in King County to get started on medication to treat opioid use disorder. In partnership with the University of Washington Department of Emergency Medicine, King County recently launched a telemedicine program that will provide on-demand access to a buprenorphine prescription. Individuals aged 13 or older in King County can call 206.289.0287 any time, day or night, to get a prescription. They'll have a free phone visit with one of the 13 UW emergency medicine physicians who will ask some questions about the caller's health and opioid use and send a buprenorphine prescription to the pharmacy of their choice to start treatment as soon as possible. The linkage to care team will also follow up within 72 hours to connect the patient to ongoing care. Download a flyer promoting the hotline for your office or waiting room.