The effects of housing policies on substance use treatment and overdose risk during COVID-19

Housing Policies and their Impact on Engagement in Substance Use Treatment and Overdose Risk during the COVID-19 Pandemic

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10872129

This study looks at how housing policies from the COVID-19 pandemic, like eviction bans and rental help, affect people dealing with substance use issues, aiming to see if these policies make it easier for them to get treatment and lower the chances of overdose.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10872129 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how various housing policies implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as eviction moratoriums and emergency rental assistance, impact individuals struggling with substance use disorders (SUD). By analyzing data across all 50 states, the study aims to understand whether these policies help improve access to substance use treatment and reduce the risk of overdose. The research employs a combination of quantitative methods to assess treatment rates and qualitative approaches to explore personal experiences related to housing insecurity and substance use. This comprehensive approach seeks to fill a critical gap in understanding the intersection of housing and substance use during a public health crisis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing substance use disorders who are also facing housing insecurity or have been affected by housing policies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing substance use disorders or housing insecurity may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved housing policies that enhance access to substance use treatment and reduce overdose risks for vulnerable populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that housing stability can significantly impact health outcomes, suggesting that this study's approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.