Improving responses to the opioid crisis and its effects on communities

Center to Advance Research Excellence (OPTIC)

NIH-funded research Rand Corporation · NIH-10877047

This study is looking at how state policies affect people struggling with opioid use disorder, especially in communities that face unfair challenges, and aims to find better ways to help them get the treatment they need and reduce overdose deaths.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRand Corporation NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Santa Monica, United States)
Project IDNIH-10877047 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding and addressing the opioid crisis, particularly the challenges faced by individuals with opioid use disorder. It aims to develop new methods and tools to analyze the impact of policies at the state level and how these policies affect communities, especially those facing structural inequalities and systemic racism. By leveraging data and insights, the research seeks to improve access to effective treatments and reduce the rates of fatal overdoses. The project will also explore the evolving nature of the crisis, including the rise of polysubstance use involving synthetic opioids.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals affected by opioid use disorder, particularly those from communities facing systemic inequalities.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of opioid use disorder or are not affected by the opioid crisis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective policies and treatments for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder, ultimately saving lives and improving community health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in addressing aspects of the opioid crisis through policy analysis and community interventions, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful impact.

Where this research is happening

Santa Monica, 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.
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.