Research published in the International Journal of Drug Policy gathered responses from 42 addiction medicine societies across 39 countries, while researchers mapped access to medications treatment settings and harm reduction services around the world.
What the Global Survey Found
The International Society of Addiction Medicine’s Global Expert Network conducted the survey and found that illicit prescription opioids ranked as the most commonly used opioids in more than 87 percent of countries. Heroin followed at 80 percent usage.
Community based outpatient settings offered the broadest access. People reached these settings in 92 percent of countries, while shelters ranked as the least available setting at 28 percent.
Access to medications for opioid use disorder varied considerably. Methadone was available in 75 percent of countries. Buprenorphine was available in 70 percent while 16 percent of countries reported no access to any opioid agonist medication.
Long term treatment showed a narrower reach. Methadone maintenance was available in 69 percent of countries, while buprenorphine or buprenorphine naloxone appeared in 64 percent and naltrexone appeared in 59 percent.
Short term medically-managed inpatient withdrawal treatment represented the most widely available program type at 74 percent. while treatment within custodial settings reached 68 percent.
Harm Reduction Gaps
The largest differences appeared in harm reduction services. HIV antiretroviral therapy reached 95 percent of countries and HIV testing reached 92 percent. Naloxone distribution reached only 31 percent, safe consumption rooms reached 20 percent and drug checking reached 15 percent.
Fewer than 31 percent of countries reported nationwide access to 12-step programs.
The study authors found substantial differences between regions, because some areas reported broad access to evidence based medications and psychosocial services, while others lacked basic treatment infrastructure.
The authors called for more involvement from medical professionals in policy decisions, and recommended strategies that communities can adapt to their local needs.
What This Means for Treatment Seekers
For someone researching addiction treatment in the United States, the survey provides useful context rather than direct guidance, because it shows how access can vary significantly between healthcare systems and communities.
Global access gaps help explain why US clinicians often emphasize medication-assisted treatment early in care, since methadone buprenorphine and naltrexone can reduce overdose risk and support continued engagement with treatment.
The findings also help explain why providers increasingly view harm reduction tools, such as naloxone and fentanyl test strips, as essential resources rather than optional extras.
The survey has limitations, because professional societies provided country level reports based on how their members experience their treatment systems. Researchers did not audit individual service counts.
National coverage can also hide local shortages, because rural and underserved communities may still struggle to reach treatment even when a country reports broad availability. The United States faces this same challenge.
Exploring Treatment Options
If you or someone you love is comparing addiction treatment options, ask providers specific questions about medication access. Find out whether the program offers all three FDA approved medications for opioid use disorder as well as what happens after detox.
A person who leaves detox without continuing care may face a difficult transition while strong follow up can help maintain treatment engagement.
Rehab.com’s directory lists verified treatment centers across the country with facility profiles that cover available medications levels of care and accepted insurance.
Search rehab centers by location and compare addiction treatment programs before you decide then call
800-985-8516
( 
Sponsored Helpline )
to speak with a treatment advisor.
