Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #120977

Robert S. Done, The Partnership, 2525 E. Broadway Blvd. #100, Tucson, AZ 85716, (520) 624-5800 x1408, rdone@thepartnership.us and Laura A. Villa, COPE Behavioral Services, Inc., 1101 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85719.

Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) is an evidence-based practice designed to provide comprehensive, community-based psychiatric treatment, rehabilitation, and support to persons with serious mental illness (SMI). COPE Behavioral Services has successfully adapted the ACT model for the delivery of substance abuse and behavioral health services to the homeless in Tucson, Arizona.

The ACT model is based on eleven service principles. Fidelity to these principles requires that a multidisciplinary team provide highly individualized, long-term, and proactive services in community settings. These services include vocational rehabilitation, substance abuse, and behavioral health programming. The model also relies on family, community, and primary care supports.

COPE Behavioral Services adapted the ACT model for use in its CSAT-funded Life Works program for the homeless. The Life Works program delivers an array of comprehensive services based on the unique characteristics of the clients. Motivational interviewing techniques are a “common language” for the staff involved in the project.

The ACT-based Life Works logic model begins with the identification of need by homeless adults with substance abuse and behavioral health conditions. The service strategy includes the engagement, assessment, and stabilization of clients, followed by customized services. Short-term outcomes focus on continuous improvement while long-term outcomes focus on independent living.

COPE's implementation of the adapted ACT model has proven effective for the homeless. Of currently enrolled clients, 59% have engaged in substance abuse treatment, 86% are enrolled in behavioral health treatment, 78% have engaged in vocational services, 70% have received primary care services, and 62% have been placed in housing.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the eleven principles of the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) model.
• Describe how the ACT model can be adapted to deliver other public health services.
• Develop an ACT-based model of substance abuse and mental health service delivery for the homeless.

Keywords: Homeless, Case Management

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.