Preferred Family Healthcare, Virtual Substance Abuse Treatment

Project Description:

This project expands PFH substance abuse treatment services to 18-24 year old young adults through the creation of an online virtual treatment program. Virtual treatment utilizes a multi-player gaming technology, similar to certain aspects of the Wii and The Sims, to create online counseling services. The purpose behind this virtual treatment is to eliminate the common barriers people face in accessing treatment such as transportation, childcare, and stigma. Since virtual treatment can be received from one’s own home, (all one needs is a computer, which PFH can pay for, and an internet connection,) these barriers are eliminated. Preferred Family Healthcare expects to see higher retention and greater outcomes success among those participating in virtual substance abuse treatment. The Institute of Public Policy is providing an outcome evaluation using a single group longitudinal design consisting of one cohort of 150 young adults over three year. Data collection includes three data collection points, intake, discharge/3 month post intake, and 6 month post intake.

Program Funder:

US Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration

Project Personnel:

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