Evaluating mobile harm reduction services for youth and young adults

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Addiction Medicine
• Adolescent Health

Background:

• Substance use among adolescents and young adults (AYA) is increasing, leading to higher emergency room visits and mortality.
• Existing addiction treatment services show low engagement rates within the AYA population.
• AYA exhibit distinct substance use patterns compared to adult populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a youth-specific mobile harm reduction program on AYA engagement.
• To address the gap in addiction treatment accessibility for adolescents and young adults.
• To reduce substance-related harm, including infections, overdose, and death, in the AYA demographic.

Main Methods:

• The Community Care in Reach AYA pilot program was launched in 2019.
• The program utilized a mobile, youth-oriented approach to harm reduction.
• Evaluation focused on AYA engagement with harm reduction services.

Main Results:

• The youth-specific program demonstrated increased engagement from the AYA population.
• Mobile harm reduction services were effective in reaching adolescents and young adults.
• The program design addressed the unique needs and patterns of AYA substance use.

Conclusions:

• Youth-oriented harm reduction programs are crucial for improving AYA engagement with addiction services.
• Mobile delivery models can enhance accessibility for adolescents and young adults.
• Targeted interventions are necessary to mitigate substance-related morbidity and mortality in AYA.