“It's something we're connected to”: Acceptability and adoption of overdose detection technologies implemented in San Francisco permanent supportive housing

Abstract

Introduction

The transition from homelessness to permanent supportive housing (PSH) is associated with solitary drug use, which heightens the risk for fatal overdose. Overdose detection technologies show promise in reducing fatal overdose in supportive housing environments. We conducted a longitudinal, mixed-methods study in a 50-unit single-room occupancy PSH building in San Francisco, California—tracing the implementation of wall-mounted, push-activated technologies (Brave Buttons) that alert designated responders to potential onsite emergencies, including overdose.

Methods

Between May 2021 and February 2022, we conducted 35 days of naturalistic observation as well as serial, semi-structured interviews with 8 building staff (e.g., housing services coordinators, front desk clerks, custodians) and 5 tenant specialists, who promoted and sensitized residents to Brave Buttons prior to their installation. We administered surveys to all residents, assessing acceptability and uses of Brave Buttons. We calculated descriptive statistics regarding Brave Button installations and activations using administrative device data. Through inductive, iterative thematic analysis, we synthesized participant narratives to identify early expectations, implementation determinants, and adaptive strategies to bolster acceptability and adoption of Brave Buttons.

Results

Despite high demand for overdose prevention solutions, staff and tenant specialists initially expressed doubts towards the adoption potential of Brave Buttons in the PSH building, citing resident mistrust of novel technologies with surveillance properties, liability related to (failed) overdose responses, and building staff capacity and willingness to respond to Button activations. Responding to these anticipated implementation constraints, a group of staff and tenant specialists hosted “engagement sessions” to build resident affinity/trust with Brave Buttons and leveraged tenant specialists' rapport with residents for technology sensitization. By December 2021, Buttons were voluntarily installed in 72 % of resident rooms and were used for multiple purposes, including overdoses and safety/wellness checks. The Buttons also helped formalize informal systems of care among residents and strengthened connections between residents and building staff.

Conclusion

Adaptive strategic planning, responsive to emerging sources of implementation opposition, was critical to addressing perceived barriers to Brave Button acceptability and adoption in the PSH building.