Supports for rural Vermont women experiencing substance use disorder and partner violence are fragmented

New research in the Journal of Rural Health examines barriers to safety for women experiencing opioid use disorder and partner violence, among a rural Vermont sample. Using one-on-one interview data, the authors’ findings reflect many of the patterns in rural social service literature. Barriers in the form of geographic isolation and transportation challenges render existing services mostly inaccessible, while a lack of integration between substance use and domestic violence systems complicates the delivery of supports. Paired with the feelings of social isolation and stigma expressed by participants, both formal and informal supports were often inadequate. The authors call for better integration across service providers and wider access to care for women struggling in rural places. #families #rural #substanceabuse