Treating Opioid Use Disorder in Puerto Rico During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Providers’ Leadership Efforts in Unprecedented Times

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is an unprecedented medical and public health issue both in Puerto Rico (PR) and the greater US with an increase incidence of opioid use every year. Unprecedented and compounded emergencies in PR such as those caused by hurricanes, earthquakes, and the COVID-19 pandemic coupled with limited national and local governmental support, has forced most clinics in PR to take action to be able to continue providing care. This commentary summarizes the leadership and clinical initiatives of 3 community organizations in PR to maintain services for people with OUD during the COVID-19 pandemic. Local legislation that supported the continuity of OUD care is summarized, along with unique experiences specific to each organization. In addition, the vulnerability of economically disadvantaged people or experiencing homelessness as well as those affected by these compounded events in PR is discussed, with an emphasis on how some challenges were addressed and future directions for continuity of care as our country adjusts to new demands caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.