Using AI and peer support to reduce racial disparities in opioid care
Official title: Leveraging social determinants via artificial intelligence and peer coaching to address racial disparities in primary care among people who use opioids
Funded at Friends Research Institute, INC. · NIH-10931538 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to make it easier for Black and Latinx individuals with opioid use disorder to get the help they need by using a friendly texting tool and support from trained peers who understand their experiences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Friends Research Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | September 29, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $564,435 |
| NIH project number | 5R18HS029783-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931538 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Black and Latinx individuals who use opioids and face barriers to accessing treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as Black or Latinx or those who do not use opioids may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to improve access to opioid use disorder treatment for Black and Latinx individuals by leveraging artificial intelligence and peer coaching. It focuses on addressing the social determinants of health that contribute to disparities in care, such as lack of support and insurance. The project utilizes an AI-driven texting tool that provides real-time responses to patient inquiries and facilitates access to buprenorphine and social services. By combining technology with culturally informed training for peer coaches, the initiative seeks to enhance patient engagement and care initiation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve treatment access and health outcomes for Black and Latinx individuals struggling with opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using technology and peer support to improve health outcomes, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Friends Research Institute, INC.
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tofighi, Babak — Friends Research Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Tofighi, Babak
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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.