Substance abuse treatment providers’ involvement in research is associated with willingness to use findings in practice.

Using publicly-available data sets from the National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network baseline protocol (CTN-0008), this project examined the contribution of several factors (demographics, attitudes, and involvement in research) influencing substance abuse treatment providers’ willingness to use research findings in practice. This study is unique in that it used the same measures with four categories of providers unified by the primary function of providing counseling in community settings: medical staff, social workers, psychologists, and counselors.

Using a multiple linear regression model, the researchers examined the impact of involvement in research and willingness to use research findings in practice. Providers involved in research were more willing to use findings in practice; Latinos/Latinas were less willing. Providers with favorable attitudes toward evidence-based practices and whose agencies supported professional growth were also more willing to use findings. Involvement in research may enhance providers’ willingness to use findings in practice and increase quality of services. Results underscore the need to provide opportunities for all providers to engage in substance abuse treatment research, particularly racial/ethnic minority providers.

Related protocols: CTN-0008