Patient- and Provider-Reported Experiences of a Mobile Novel Digital Therapeutic in People With Opioid Use Disorder (reSET-O): Feasibility and Acceptability Study

BACKGROUND: Medications for the treatment of opioid use disorder, such as buprenorphine, are effective and essential for addressing the opioid epidemic. However, high dropout rates from medication remain a challenge. Behavioral treatment with contingency management and cognitive behavioral counseling has shown promise for improving the outcomes of buprenorphine treatment but is complicated to deliver. The delivery of behavioral treatment through technology-based platforms has the potential to make it more feasible for widespread dissemination. OBJECTIVE: reSET-O is a prescription digital therapeutic and a commercial adaptation of the Therapeutic Education System, an internet-based program with a Community Reinforcement Approach to cognitive behavioral therapy. It delivers cognitive behavioral therapy modules and contingency management rewards upon completion of modules and negative urine drug screens. This pilot study aims to assess the feasibility and acceptability of reSET-O in a community-based opioid treatment program with a Hub and Spoke model of care as part of a larger strategy to maintain individuals in treatment. Objective and qualitative results, as well as acceptability and likeability of reSET-O, were obtained from 15 individuals. METHODS: English-speaking individuals aged ≥18 years with a diagnosis of current opioid use disorder were recruited after being on buprenorphine for at least 1 week of treatment. Two 12-week prescriptions for reSET-O were written for the 24-week study. Patient reports of drug use and likeability scales of reSET-O were conducted at weeks 4, 8, 12, and 24 of the study. Qualitative interviews were also conducted. A total of 4 providers were recruited and provided feedback on the acceptability and feasibility of reSET-O. RESULTS: Of the 15 participants who participated in this pilot study, 7 (47%) completed 24 weeks, and 8 (53%) were unable to complete because of dropout after enrollment, attrition in treatment, or incarceration. An average of US $96 in contingency management rewards were earned by participants for the completion of modules for the duration of the pilot study. Participants’ subjective feedback revealed that reSET-O was easy to use, enjoyable, and helped provide a safe space to admit recurring substance use. CONCLUSIONS: reSET-O was well accepted based on patient and provider feedback in this pilot study; however, adherence and retention in treatment remain areas for improvement. Randomized control trials are needed to assess whether retention of community-based buprenorphine treatment is enhanced through the use of technology-based behavioral interventions such as reSET-O.