Disparities in Alcohol and Drug Screening and Treatment Based on Race, Ethnicity, and Language

Overview

This report highlights significant disparities in alcohol and drug screening and treatment based on race, ethnicity, and language preference. Despite recommendations for universal screening, minority populations, particularly Latino and Black patients, face barriers in accessing treatment for substance use disorders.

Background

Excessive alcohol use is a leading preventable cause of death in the U.S., contributing to various chronic diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated unhealthy alcohol use and opioid use disorders, highlighting the need for effective screening and treatment interventions. Understanding disparities in screening and treatment access is crucial for addressing health inequities among racial and ethnic minority populations.

Data Highlights

This study utilized a linked electronic health record dataset to analyze screening and treatment patterns among Latino, non-Hispanic Black, and non-Hispanic White adults at community health centers from 2012 to 2020.

Key Findings

• Minority groups receive less screening for alcohol and drug use compared to White individuals.
• Latino and Black patients with substance use disorders are less likely to receive treatment compared to their White counterparts.
• Language preference impacts the likelihood of developing substance use problems, with Spanish-speaking Latinos showing lower rates of issues compared to English-speaking peers.
• Despite high screening rates, treatment referral and receipt among those with alcohol use disorder remain low, with only 4.3% to 15.5% referred to treatment.
• Barriers such as cultural and language differences contribute to lower screening and treatment rates for minority populations.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should prioritize culturally competent screening and treatment strategies to address disparities in substance use disorder care. Community health centers can play a pivotal role in improving access to screening and treatment for minority populations.

Conclusion

Addressing the disparities in alcohol and drug screening and treatment is essential for improving health outcomes among racial and ethnic minority populations. Continued research and targeted interventions are necessary to bridge these gaps.

Related Resources & Content

1. OCHIN Inc, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023 -- Disparities in Alcohol and Drug Screening and Treatment Based on Race, Ethnicity, and Language
2. npj Digital Medicine — Comparing content within a culturally-adapted digital treatment for Hispanic patients with alcohol use disorder
3. American Journal of Epidemiology — Commentary on disparities in mental health service utilization among Asian ethnoracial groups with limited English proficiency
4. The ASCO Post — Study Examines Disparities in Access to Cancer Care Among Non–English-Speaking Patients in the United States
5. Open Forum Infectious Diseases — Disparities in Hepatitis C Treatment Among Racial and Sociodemographic Groups at an Urban Academic Medical Center from 2018 to 2023
6. Comparing content within a culturally-adapted digital treatment for Hispanic patients with alcohol use disorder
7. Commentary on disparities in mental health service utilization among Asian ethnoracial groups with limited English proficiency
8. Study Examines Disparities in Access to Cancer Care Among Non–English-Speaking Patients in the United States
9. Draft Recommendation: Unhealthy Alcohol Use in Adolescents and Adults: Screening and Behavioral Counseling Interventions
10. VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Substance Use Disorders
11. Non-English Communication Access in Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Facilities in the U.S., 2024 | Sciety