This paper examines patterns of drug treatment entry among 28,000 adult injection drug users (IDUs), with special attention to racial and ethnic differences. The data analyzed originates from a statewide drug-treatment database covering four years. Through the use of logistic regression analysis, the study identified significant population differences between hose who used detoxification only, those who used residential treatment and those who used methadone maintenance. Latino IDUs were approximately a third less likely than white IDUs to enter residential treatment and African-American IDUs were half as likely as white IDUs to enter methadone maintenance treatment. The paper discusses specific programmatic and research implications including the need to determine whether differential entry rates are due to access, client awareness, cultural, referral or other factors.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participants (learners) in this session will be able to: 1. Identify racial and ethnic differences in the utilization of drug treatment. 2. Discuss how these differences may influence the development of appropriate access and outreach services.
Keywords: Injection Drug Users, Treatment Patterns
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.