Building Effective Substance Abuse Treatment (BEST): Final Evaluation Report

Publication Date:

Publisher:

Author(s): J. Guydish; C. Masson; K.A. Howard; B. Tajima; J. Showstack; T. Davis

Research Area: Health

Type: Report

Abstract:

This report discusses the evaluation of the Building Effective Substance Abuse Treatment (BEST) Initiative, which is designed to support capacity building and organizational development in community-based drug abuse treatment programs in the San Francisco Bay Area. It addresses deficiencies in substance abuse treatment provision including: the fragmented system of care, inefficiencies in service provision, limitations in the continuum of care, and barriers to access for persons seeking treatment. Using qualitative and quantitative interviews and surveys, the evaluation sought to determine whether BEST interventions would stimulate change in the participating agencies' organizational climate, practices and functioning. Evaluation data were collected for BEST I and II cohorts.



Key Findings:



* In BEST I & II, most respondents were positive about the Assessment and Planning process, their participation in the process and the expertise and sensitivity of the AP team.
* After two years, most BEST I agency directors reported that they had completed implementation of their system improvement projects. Results included: forming a board of directors; developing a strategic plan; and creating a functional Web site for the program.
* BEST I providers identified positive outcomes that included improved communication, greater staff cohesion and sense of mission, and improved fund development systems.
* BEST II agency directors reported that system improvement projects led to improvements in organizational structures and functioning as evidenced by having a more effective leadership structure in place; creating a more effective treatment team and delivery system; and developing long-term strategic plans.