ECAM: Using Technology to Create Culturally Appropriate and Accessible Treatment for Recovery From Substance Use Disorders

The Consumer Advocacy Model (CAM) is an outpatient program providing specialized services for individuals with substance use disorders and/or mental illness, especially those with co-occurring disabilities. Using technological enhancements through the eCAM program, CAM utilizes electronic resources to meet the needs of consumers and overcome barriers to accessibility. Consumers (n= 179) access services via web portals created dynamically and tailored to their needs. These portals were designed to minimize barriers and improve accessibility. For example, American Sign Language video and English audio formats are provided for Deaf consumers and for those low literacy, respectively. Other resources include automated text message and e-mail appointment reminders, access to electronic health records, and online video counseling sessions. For the past three years, consumers utilizing SUD services had a slight reduction in their alcohol consumption and a significant decrease in their illegal drug use. For alcohol dependent consumers, there was a decrease in their Alcohol Use Disorder Identification (AUDIT) test scores from intake to follow-up, and the number of consumers scoring high enough to warrant further evaluation for dependence dropped from 16.7% (n= 11) at intake to 10.6% (n= 7). There was also a significant decrease (p= .026) in the number of consumers scoring high enough to indicate substance abuse on the Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST), dropping from 53% (n= 35) to 37.9% (n= 25). By meeting consumers where they are and making materials accessible from the beginning, the eCAM program represents an open-source alternative to commercial applications that is secure and accessible.