PROJECT

Understanding disparities in substance use disorder treatment among patients at Mass General Brigham

Client

Mass General Brigham

ICH conducted a qualitative research study on disparities in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment among Black and Latinx patients at Mass General Brigham (MGB). Using quantitative data, MGB previously identified a disparity in their SUD treatment services and engaged ICH to conduct a qualitative study to better understand the drivers of this disparity, including barriers and facilitators to accessing and engaging in treatment. The study included semi-structured interviews with 29 care providers working in a variety of roles at MGB hospitals and clinics, including MDs, nurses, Advanced Practice Providers, recovery coaches and other peer support staff, psychologists, social workers, medical assistants, front desk staff, and administrative staff. Interviews explored participants’ experiences with and perspectives on SUD treatment access and equity within the MGB care system. ICH summarized and reported on qualitative findings to MGB in order to inform changes to SUD treatment programming and the expansion of their regional Bridge Clinic services.