Digital Therapeutic Supports Recovery Among Patients With SUD 

For those struggling with substance use disorder (SUD), recent study findings suggest the use of a digital therapeutic phone application can help support recovery. 

Researchers investigated the adoption and usage of a smartphone app with a cognitive behavioral therapy program among individuals with SUD. The app, called Connections, provided various features such as weekly Brief Addiction Monitor (BAM) assessments, daily check-ins, tools for tracking sobriety and treatment, and access to social workers and peer support specialists.

The researchers recruited participants from 2 groups: individuals referred by justice-related agencies and those who responded to outreach efforts by the Addiction Policy Forum (APF). The Connections app was offered to both groups. Researchers examined the usage patterns and engagement with the app and recovery support services among those who downloaded and used it. The app collected primary data, including sociodemographic information, referral status, dates of app usage, completed activities, and BAM scores.

Out of the 1973 participants offered the app, 40% downloaded it. Among the 350 individuals who used the app, 3 distinct groups emerged: 

• those who solely utilized the cognitive behavioral aspects of the app;
• those who exclusively engaged with the recovery support services; and 
• those who utilized both. 

When comparing the two referral groups, justice-referred participants showed a preference for telehealth recovery support services provided by social workers, whereas the self-referred participants showed equal utilization of the app alone or in combination with recovery support services.

Over time, BAM scores improved among the participants. Justice-referred individuals demonstrated more improvement in protective behaviors compared to the self-referred group, while self-referred participants exhibited greater improvement in risk behaviors. Additionally, older participants were more likely to use the app and report fewer risky behaviors as measured by the BAM.

Researchers concluded the use of a digital therapeutic, such as the Connections app, can support the recovery of individuals with SUD. However, researchers emphasized many clients still desired and required the integration of social worker driven recovery support services, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The investigators added that individuals who seek assistance independently, rather than being referred by justice-related agencies, may be more likely to benefit from digital therapeutics. 

These findings highlight the potential of digital interventions in substance use disorder treatment but emphasize the importance of considering individual needs and preferences when implementing such tools.

Reference:

Wilde JA, Zawislak K, Sawyer-Morris G, Hulsey J, Molfenter T, Taxman FS. The adoption and sustainability of digital therapeutics in justice systems: A pilot feasibility study. Int J Drug Policy. 2023;116:104024. doi:10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104024