Persons with disabilities have the same or higher rates of alcohol and other drug problems as the general population, but may not have equal access to treatment services. SAMHSA has recently published guidelines that outline necessary accommodations for persons with diverse disabilities. However, treatment providers report that including persons with disabilities, particularly intellectual disabilities, in treatment programs continues to be a common difficulty. The purpose of this study is to provide initial data that examines access to treatment for persons with disabilities and their relative success in these community-based treatment programs. Extant data bases on Medicaid funding and on drug and alcohol treatment programs in Oregon are combined to 1) determine the proportion of people in treatment who have disabilities, and 2) compare treatment effectiveness for this population relative to non-disabled persons. The study population includes all persons enrolled in Medicaid-sponsored chemical dependency treatment in Oregon for the years 1996, 1997 and 1998. Odds ratios will indicate population comparisons for treatment enrollment and treatment effectiveness (as measured by treatment completion and substance use at time of discharge). Differences across the years are discussed. Implications will be discussed for including persons with disabilities in chemical dependency programs.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to: 1. Describe how to use extant data sources to examine access to treatment for persons with disabilities 2. Identify the likelihood of persons with disabilities accessing treatment 3. Identify the likelihood of treatment being successful
Keywords: Drug Abuse Treatment, Disability
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.