Rapid Adaptation to Prevent Drug Use (RAPD): protocol of a pilot randomized trial to enhance the impact of an evidence-based intervention for youth
Background
Drug use trends among youth change rapidly, making it difficult for experts to respond quickly. Delays in addressing these issues can lead to preventable health problems and deaths. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for better strategies to respond quickly and fairly using existing treatments and prevention efforts. Evidence-based interventions (EBIs), like the Michigan Model for Health™ (MMH), are already effective in tackling emerging drug problems. However, we need to improve how these strategies are implemented to better respond to new drug trends. This research aims to design and test strategies to: (1) improve school-based EBIs in responding to urgent drug issues, and (2) support teachers in applying updated EBIs, especially in schools with economically disadvantaged students.
Methods
This research has three key aims:
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Identify Gaps and Best Practices: Using qualitative methods, we will conduct After Action Reviews (AARs) to reflect on past responses to public health crises, like vaping, and identify gaps in current implementation strategies.
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Design and Pilot RAPD: Based on the findings from aim 1, we will design and test RAPD (Rapid Adaptation to Prevent Drug Use), a set of strategies to improve MMH’s ability to address emerging drug issues. We will pilot RAPD in 10 middle schools through a controlled trial design.
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Assess Costs and Benefits: We will evaluate the costs and benefits of RAPD from multiple partner perspectives using a mixed methods approach.
Discussion
This study aims to create strategies that can quickly reduce the impact of emerging drugs among youth. By reviewing past responses using AAR, we can identify gaps and adapt current prevention efforts to better meet urgent needs. The research will test RAPD to improve how schools respond to drug use trends and provide a framework for future adaptations. This approach will help implement strategies more effectively, ensuring equitable responses to drug issues across youth populations.
