Just Care for Families Program for Drug Addiction

This trial tests the expansion of a program called Just Care for Families (JCFF) to assist more families dealing with drug addiction, incorporating a mobile app into the treatment. The study will determine if families using the app experience better outcomes, such as reduced opioid or stimulant misuse and improved child welfare, compared to those who do not use it. The trial seeks parents who have misused opioids or stimulants in the past year, have a child at home or plan to reunite with them, live in one of nine participating counties, and are on Medicaid. Participants must have access to a computer or smartphone and be willing to work with a Just Care coach. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative solutions for family support and addiction recovery.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that the Just Care for Families (JCFF) program is generally easy for participants to handle. In studies on its use for substance use issues, participants experienced no serious side effects. This program uses a behavioral approach to help families involved in or at risk of entering the child welfare system.

The JCFF app, which supports this program, has been tested and found easy to use. This mobile health tool includes learning modules and a chat feature for direct communication with a licensed counselor. So far, evidence shows no negative effects from using the app.

Researchers are excited about the Just Care for Families (JCFF) program because it uniquely combines behavioral intervention with digital support to help families dealing with drug addiction and involvement in child welfare systems. Unlike traditional treatments that may focus solely on substance abuse counseling or mental health services, JCFF incorporates a digital app that enhances accessibility and engagement, providing continuous support outside of in-person sessions. Additionally, one treatment arm of the trial offers feedback to intervention coaches based on app usage, potentially personalizing and improving the effectiveness of the intervention. These innovative features aim to address both the practical and emotional needs of families, offering a comprehensive approach that goes beyond the scope of standard care options.

Research shows that the Just Care for Families (JCFF) program supports parents dealing with opioid and stimulant use, especially in rural areas. In this trial, participants may receive either the JCFF program alone or the JCFF program combined with the JCFF app. Studies have found that family-based treatment programs can reduce the risk of substance use and improve outcomes for children, such as family reunification. Additionally, using a mobile app for support, like the JCFF app, can enhance treatment results. App-based help has been linked to better participation and retention in substance use treatment. Combining the JCFF program with the app offers potential for more effective and efficient support for families.¹³⁶⁷⁸