Evaluation of an Evidence-Based Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program for Urban High-Risk Females

Racial and ethnic disparities affect access to prevention and treatment of substance use disorders (SUDs). Traumatic events can present additional hardship for women with SUD. The participants included 180 low-income African American and Hispanic/Latina women with a history of incarceration, homelessness, commercial sex work, substance use or co-occurring substance use and mental disorders living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS and hepatitis-C, and experiencing multiple barriers to accessing SUD treatment services. Statistically significant decreases in alcohol-binge drinking, illegal drug use, and same-day alcohol and drug use were observed when comparing the baseline and 6-month follow-up interviews. Participants reported improvement in psychosocial functioning, substance use, and self-sufficiency. This study provides evidence for the effectiveness of an integrated, trauma-informed program and expands our understanding of barriers faced by minority women with substance use disorders.