Developing a Telehealth Model to Improve Treatment Access for Rural Veterans With Substance Use Disorders

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Apr 21, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is testing a new way to provide support for veterans struggling with substance use disorders (SUDs) through telehealth, which means they can receive care from home using a phone or computer. The goal is to see if this model helps more veterans get the treatment they need and improves their overall health. The study is open to veterans at the Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System who have a diagnosis of substance use disorder or have been using substances regularly over the past month.

To participate, veterans should be between the ages of 65 and 75, have access to a phone, and be able to understand and agree to join the study. However, those currently receiving therapy for substance use or who have serious mental health issues that prevent them from understanding the study cannot take part. Participants can expect to engage in initial discussions and ongoing treatment sessions delivered via telehealth, making it easier for them to access the care they need.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Veteran patients at the Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System
• • Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) SUD diagnosis and/or substance use on average of 2 days a week over the past month
• • Telephone access
• • Able to provide informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Receiving SUD psychotherapy
• • Inability to speak or understand English
• • Substantial mental health instability or conditions that preclude informed consent (e.g., acute psychosis, cognitive deficits) or understanding of assessment or program content
• • Prior alcohol withdrawal seizures or delirium tremens