Internationally, there is increased interest in enhanced access to quality care (i.e., evidence-based prevention and treatment) for substance use. ICUDDR surveyed its membership to assess the inclusion of quality standards and quality improvement strategies in the substance use treatment curricula provided to students enrolled in certificate, baccalaureate, masters, and post-masters classes and programs.
ICUDDR emailed a questionnaire to 322 members. The 31-item survey was designed to describe membership efforts to train students on quality care standards and quality improvement strategies for treatment services addressing substance use disorders. Participants provided identifying information (e.g., respondent name, institution, country, and the number of students enrolled in certificate, baccalaureate, masters, and post-master’s trainings). Items assessed included content on quality improvement, safe care, effective care, patient-centered care, timely care, efficient care, and equitable care (yes, no) (Institute of Medicine, 2001, 2006). Additional items examined: methods to understand the patient experience; continuous quality improvement approaches; outcome measurement, tracking and reporting; and system change methods in addiction studies courses and training. Respondents also gave brief examples of plans for new content on quality of care and quality improvement strategies.