Investigating how policies affect substance use and treatment access for registered sex offenders in Philadelphia.
Official title: Policy determinants of substance use and treatment access for individuals registered as sex offenders in Philadelphia: a Qualitative investigation
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11010799 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how rules and policies affect people registered as sex offenders in Philadelphia, especially when it comes to getting help for substance use and treatment, and it aims to find out what challenges they face so that better support can be provided.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $47,323 |
| NIH project number | 5R36DA058062-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010799 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals registered as sex offenders who are experiencing substance use issues and seeking treatment in Philadelphia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not registered as sex offenders or those who do not have substance use issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of policy on substance use and access to treatment for individuals registered as sex offenders in Philadelphia. It focuses on understanding the structural barriers these individuals face, including stigma and discrimination, which can hinder their access to necessary health services. By conducting qualitative interviews and analyses, the research aims to uncover the specific challenges and needs of this vulnerable population, ultimately informing better policy and treatment options. The findings could help shape interventions that improve care access for those affected.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved access to substance use treatment and support services for registered sex offenders, enhancing their overall well-being.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research specifically addressing this population, studies on the effects of policy on access to care for marginalized groups have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shefner, Ruth — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Shefner, Ruth
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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.