Identifying and responding to policy-related barriers, facilitators, and misunderstandings in the HEALing communities study: A community-driven approach
Anita Silwal , Robert Bohler , Timothy Hunt , Ramona G. Olvera , Michelle R. Lofwall , Christopher D. Cook , Katherine R. Marks , Carly Bridden , Patricia R. Freeman , Monica Nouvong , Laura C. Fanucchi , Nabila El-Bassel , Lisa A. Frazier , Sharon L. Walsh , Jeffery C. Talbert
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Introduction
The HEALing (Helping to End Addiction Long-Term®) Communities Study (HCS) aimed to reduce opioid-involved overdose deaths across four states (Kentucky, Massachusetts, New York, and Ohio) via community-engaged implementation of three evidence-based practices (EBPs): (1) opioid overdose education and naloxone distribution, (2) medication for opioid use disorder expansion/linkage/retention, and (3) safer opioid prescribing and dispensing practices. A policy workgroup (PWG) was convened and developed a procedure to identify and address policies potentially impacting EBP implementation.
Methods
A five-step method was developed to identify, track, and respond to relevant policies at three of the research sites (Kentucky, Massachusetts, and New York) in collaboration with community partners and stakeholders. Policies possibly impacting EBPs were reported, reviewed, and documented, including any actions taken to address the policy issue. Policies were discussed with local, state, and federal level stakeholders in attempts to resolve barriers, clarify misunderstandings, and disseminate facilitators.
Results
A total of 87 (Kentucky = 37; Massachusetts = 19; New York = 31) policies were identified and addressed; 42 were identified as barriers, 24 as facilitators, and 21 as misunderstandings. PWG efforts resolved over 73 % (n = 31) of policy barriers, clarified 90 % (n = 19) of policy misunderstandings, and disseminated 100 % (n = 24) of policy facilitators.
Conclusions
A community-driven approach in policy surveillance identified, addressed, and disseminated several different types of policy issues that could impact implementation of EBPs for opioid-involved overdose prevention. Many policy barriers persisted during the HCS study, which may have adversely affected study outcomes.
期刊介绍:
The International Journal of Drug Policy provides a forum for the dissemination of current research, reviews, debate, and critical analysis on drug use and drug policy in a global context. It seeks to publish material on the social, political, legal, and health contexts of psychoactive substance use, both licit and illicit. The journal is particularly concerned to explore the effects of drug policy and practice on drug-using behaviour and its health and social consequences. It is the policy of the journal to represent a wide range of material on drug-related matters from around the world.