Improving harm reduction services for drug use in rural areas

Promoting remote harm reduction and secondary services in rural settings (PROMOTE) study

NIH-funded research University of Chicago · NIH-10590281

This study is looking at how to improve support services for people in rural areas who are struggling with substance use, especially with opioids and methamphetamines, by finding better ways to deliver help remotely and making sure it's easy for everyone to access.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10590281 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance harm reduction services for individuals dealing with substance use issues in rural communities. It focuses on understanding the changing patterns of drug use, particularly with opioids and methamphetamines, and the associated health risks like hepatitis C and HIV. The study aims to develop and evaluate remote delivery methods for these services, ensuring they are accessible even in areas with limited resources. By collaborating with harm reduction service providers and community members, the research seeks to tailor effective strategies that can be implemented in these settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in rural areas who are struggling with substance use, particularly those using opioids or methamphetamines.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in rural areas or those who do not engage in substance use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve health outcomes for individuals in rural areas affected by substance use disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that harm reduction strategies can be effective in urban settings, but this approach in rural areas is relatively novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
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Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.