Improving harm reduction services for substance use in rural areas
Official title: Promoting remote harm reduction and secondary services in rural settings (PROMOTE) study
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11080100 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to improve support for people in rural areas who are dealing with substance use issues, especially as overdose deaths and related health problems are on the rise, by finding better ways to deliver help remotely so everyone can get the care they need, like education on overdose prevention and syringe exchange.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | September 29, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $166,670 |
| NIH project number | 3R01DA057665-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080100 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in rural areas who are at risk of or currently using substances like opioids and methamphetamines.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in rural areas or those who are not engaged in substance use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to enhance harm reduction services for individuals struggling with substance use in rural communities, particularly focusing on the challenges posed by rising overdose deaths and infectious diseases linked to drug use. The study aims to adapt and implement remote service delivery methods to ensure that individuals can access necessary support, such as overdose education and syringe exchange, despite geographical barriers. By engaging with harm reduction service providers and community members, the research seeks to tailor effective strategies that address the unique needs of these populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve access to life-saving harm reduction services for individuals in rural areas affected by substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: 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
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pho, Mai Tuyet — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Pho, Mai Tuyet
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.