Helpline
Call 1.855.378.4373 to schedule a call time with a specialist or visit scheduler.drugfree.org
Helpline

    System Improvement

    As the addiction treatment system grapples with the transition to managed care, value-based payment contracting, as well as the vastly altered treatment landscape, we help organizations thrive in this new environment.

    Learn how we work with state agencies, policymakers, providers and clinical experts to improve patient care within the larger system.

    Our services

    The following are our primary areas of focus for system improvement, along with examples of recent work. Use the contact form below for information on engaging with our experts.

    Program evaluation and analysis

    We provide individually designed evaluation, data analysis and programmatic implementation summary reviews. Our services typically consist of monthly evaluation reports, performance monitoring of clinics by regular review and compilation of site data, as well as process evaluation activities of staff and activities at project sites.

    Recent work:

    We evaluated the expansion of medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder in Bronx, Chautauqua and Dutchess counties, in conjunction with New York State’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). We provided evaluation services including data analysis and reporting.

    Implementation strategies and training for evidence-based practices

    We focus on process improvement strategies to adapt implementation to local needs as well as the use of data-based performance monitoring to guide implementation and gauge success.

    Current and recent work:

    We are developing tools on integrated care models within opioid treatment programs to promote the integration of primary care and behavioral health care (PIPBHC) with NYS OASAS and the Acacia Network to support long-term fidelity and practice improvement.

    We have also developed a series of online trainings to facilitate implementation of person-centered care (PCC) principles into clinical practice, in collaboration with NYS OASAS.

    Translation of regulatory updates into program policies and practices

    In collaboration with state and local policymakers, we provide training support to treatment programs as they adapt to new regulations. Our objective is to ensure regulation proves effective and clinically meaningful.

    Recent work:

    Our team developed trainings to support New York state’s transition of its residential treatment system. Trainings provide treatment providers detailed guidance on new regulations and how to transform them into effective clinical practices.

    Fiscal sustainability analysis and planning

    This work focuses on developing effective business modeling tools to assist treatment program operators as they develop plans for delivering quality care in a fiscally responsible way.

    Recent work:

    We helped the Center for Treatment Innovation (COTI) enhance administrative and fiscal practices to transition from state and federal grant funding to revenue generation. We collaboratively developed administration and fiscal sustainability planning tools and trainings.

    Change management and quality improvement

    We provide a structured process to conduct ongoing, team-based program improvement driven by active tracking of clinical practices and care. Our method helps programs and state agencies make improvements that result in enhanced patient care.

    Recent work

    We provided data-driven technical assistance to a cross-section of clinical and administrative staff at the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health. Trainings and tools focused on improving patient access, engagement, and retention.

    Contact us

    For more information on receiving expert technical assistance, please complete the form below.


    Our team

    Our evaluation, consultation and training services are developed and facilitated by the following systems change and health care experts.

    Marcus Daugherty, M.A., L.M.H.C.

    Vice President, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging (DEIB) & System Innovation

    Learn more
    Luis Torres, M.P.H.

    Associate VP of Product Management

    Learn more