Implementing peer recovery coaching and improving outcomes for substance use disorders in underserved communities

Abstract

Introduction

The Peer Recovery Expansion Project (PREP) was designed to expand outreach and deliver enhanced treatment services via peer-recovery coaches for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) and limited access to healthcare.

Methods

PREP was implemented in low-socioeconomic areas with historic challenges to accessing SUD treatment. Services were provided to 153 clients through tailored cultural responsiveness, use of peer-based recovery coaching, and development of a Recovery Support Network. Outcome data were collected using the Government Performance and Reporting Act tool at intake and at 6-month follow-up for coaches and clients.

Results

The vast majority of peer-recovery coaches were satisfied with the overall quality of the training and their training experience (96.8%). Around 95% agreed that the training enhanced their skills in the topic area and 93% agreed that the training was relevant to substance use disorder treatment at the 6-month post training survey. Majority of clients were from low-income, minority demographics that had a high prevalence history of incarceration, homelessness, and inconsistent employment. At 6-month follow-up, they reported a 22% increase in stable housing and a 25% increase in full-time/part-time employment/training program enrollment. They also demonstrated a significant decline in reported depression, anxiety, and prescribed medication use at 6-month follow-up when compared to baseline.

Conclusions

Clients enrolled in a tailored evidence based peer-led program decreased their psychiatric symptoms and increased their housing stability and employment. Study outcomes support the use of an integrated peer-led support for increasing engagement in care for adults experiencing substance use disorders.

Keywords:

• Peer-recovery coach
• substance use disorder
• peer recovery support services
• community treatment centers
• low resource community

Acknowledgements

• Dillon and Dorothy West from the Center for Recovery and Wellness Resources

• All of the volunteer peer-recovery coaches

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration, an agency of the US Department of Health and Human Services, grant number T32 HP10031 (Michael A. Hansen’s postdoctoral funding). The funding source/study sponsor had no role in the writing of this manuscript, or decision to submit the manuscript for publication.

This publication was supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Services Health Administration (SAMSHA), grant number TI-026609. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of SAMSHA.