Abundant research has shown disproportionately high rates of alcohol and drug use disorders among homeless adults, but few studies have investigated utilization of substance abuse treatment services among these individuals. Of particular interest is the appearance of homeless adults with AOD disorders in non-AOD public sector service agencies. This study funded by NIAAA involves secondary analyses of data collected in an NIMH-funded study that consisted of a 90-minute structured interview with 797 homeless adults. Information on services used by each of these individuals within relevant non-AOD public sector service systems (criminal justice, physical health, mental health, social services) over the prior three year period was then obtained through searches of each system’s administrative data files and linked to the interview data. Among the 43% of homeless participants in this study with alcohol or drug use disorders, nearly one third received inpatient or outpatient substance abuse treatment in Houston during the previous year. Among those who used treatment services, half had spent approximately one month or less in inpatient or outpatient treatment last year. Although the rate of substance abuse treatment penetration among homeless persons with alcohol or drug problems appears notable, those with AOD disorders who are not engaged in substance abuse treatment have more contact with the criminal justice system and less contact with the mental health care and social service systems. Opportunities for identification and referral are discussed in light of the distinctions in non-AOD service use by AOD treatment group.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Keywords: Drug Abuse Treatment, Homeless
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.