Date of Award
May 2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Nursing
First Advisor
Tracy Evanson
Abstract
This study utilized descriptive phenomenology to describe the lived experiences of AmericanIndian patients diagnosed with opioid use disorder (OUD), when they visit their primary care provider. The specific aims were to: 1) describe what was beneficial when visiting their provider; 2) describe what was detrimental when visiting their provider; and 3) provide recommendations for improving primary care services. Twelve participants were interviewed and the essence of the phenomenon emerged as “the interaction between the provider and patient”. A model was created. The constituents of the essence were beneficial interactions and detrimental interactions. The major themes that emerged from beneficial interactions were connection, support, and professional behaviors by the provider. These led to continued engagement by the patient. The major themes that emerged from detrimental interactions were stigma, provider disengagement, and unprofessional behaviors by the provider. These led to disengagement by the patient. Participants also provided recommendations for improving services that revolved around services, hiring practices, and staff training. The findings from this study were synthesized with the current literature to discuss implications for practice, policy, research, and education.
Recommended Citation
Johnson Jr., Frank, "The Primary Care Experiences Of American Indian Patients Diagnosed With Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)" (2026). Theses and Dissertations. 13953.
https://commons.und.edu/theses/13953