Tracking measures of quality representing the use of National Quality Forum proven practices in addiction treatment programs

In 2005, RWJF supported the National Quality Forum's (NQF) engagement of an expert panel to identify a set of addiction treatment practices based on strong empirical evidence. A 2006 follow-up effort, also supported by RWJF, submitted these practices to a formal NQF consensus process. These practices included the use of: medications for specific diagnoses; screening and brief interventions; specific psychosocial clinical interventions; post-treatment aftercare; and case management, wrap-around and supportive services. When used appropriately, these practices are expected to result in better outcomes for people who seek treatment for addiction and dependence on drugs and alcohol. The final report for this NQF consensus work is expected in July 2007. It is not currently known if, or to what extent, these optimal practices are used in addiction treatment settings because there are few measures available to track their use. This project will utilize expert input to create measurement tools, and it will track the use of these practices through a national survey of addiction treatment programs. Deliverables for this work will include a report from key stakeholder convenings and reports from data-tracking efforts that will obtain baseline and follow-up data on the use of NQF-endorsed practices among a representative sample of addiction treatment programs.

Grant Details

Amount Awarded $775,000.00

Awarded on: 8/10/2007

Time frame: 8/15/2007 - 12/31/2010

Grant Number: 62006