This paper addresses the health status and service needs of White and African-American patients in methadone treatment by reporting on data collected as part of a large national survey of Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) conducted for the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT). As part of a baseline phase of this study, site personnel and patients in 108 clinics in 14 states were surveyed in 1998 and 1999. A total of 4,374 patients (17.2% African-American, 56.5% White) completed the survey. Of these patients, 1,641 (38%) reported themselves to be in continuous treatment for less than 1 year. The remaining 2,733 patents (62%) reported themselves to be in treatment for 1 year or longer. The health and mental health status and substance use patterns of African-American and White patients are compared overall and by time in treatment. For example, Whites scored significantly higher on anxiety and depression measures, and African-Americans reported more use of cocaine than Whites, regardless of time in treatment. Types of services received are also compared by race. Racial disparities will continue to be a focus of substance abuse treatment and research. Implications of these findings for the ideal mix of services, given the needs of African-American and White patients, will contribute to this discussion.
Learning Objectives: (1)Participants will be able to identify disparities by race in general health, mental health, substance use, and services provided to methadone patients. (2)Participants will develop a greater understanding of issues related to treating patients of diversity.
Keywords: Substance Abuse Treatment, Methadone Maintenance
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.