Mobile addiction treatment units: a narrative review.
Barrera, Irving; Wang, Grace; Rajakumar, Brammy; Muthupalaniappan, Siva; Cronin, Alexandria E.; Chatterjee, Avik
Why this matters
The mobile addiction evidence base is concentrated in a handful of cities, which limits how far it generalizes. Of 34 studies reviewed, most came from Baltimore, Boston, Philadelphia, and New Haven, and the recurring challenges were patient engagement, logistics, and financial sustainability.
Abstract
This narrative review synthesizes research on implementation and outcomes of Mobile Addiction Treatment Units (MATUs) in the US. Of 2,232 articles screened, 34 were selected for inclusion. Most common study locations were Baltimore (10), Boston (5), Philadelphia (4), and New Haven (3). MATUs successfully engaged vulnerable populations, delivering comprehensive care combining harm reduction, primary care, and mental health services. Common challenges included patient engagement, logistical barriers, and financial sustainability.