Open AccessThe Ohio Substance Abuse Monitoring Network: constructing and operating a statewide epidemiologic intelligence system
Author(s) -
Harvey A. Siegal,
Robert G. Carlson,
Deric R. Kenne,
Sanford Starr,
Richard C. Stephens
Publication year - 2000
Publication title -
american journal of public health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.284
H-Index - 264
eISSN - 1541-0048
pISSN - 0090-0036
DOI - 10.2105/ajph.90.12.1835
Subject(s) - substance abuse , addiction , psychological intervention , wright , psychiatry , medicine , environmental health , engineering , systems engineering
Working with the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services (ODADAS) and researchers at the University of Akron, Wright State University's Center for Interventions, Treatment, and Addictions Research developed the Ohio Substance Abuse Monitoring (OSAM) Network to provide a statewide summary of substance abuse trends. Ten key informants across the state collect qualitative and statistical data on substance abuse trends in their regions and prepare biannual reports. The OSAM network has a rapid response capability through which key informants can investigate special issues related to substance abuse identified by ODADAS and provide policymakers with timely, statewide reports. Within 12 months after operations began, the key informants produced reports on drug abuse trends and rapid response issues for the state. These reports prepared policymakers to respond more effectively to prevention and substance abuse treatment needs.