The "war on drugs" in the United States has long-reaching impacts that extend far beyond the criminal legal system. This complex issue exacerbates numerous social determinants of health (SDOH), which are the conditions in the environments where people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship, and age. The research article "How the war on drugs impacts social determinants of health beyond the criminal legal system" by A. Cohen et al. provides valuable insights into how these policies affect various facets of life, including employment, housing, education, public benefits, family regulation, substance use treatment, and the healthcare system.As a practitioner, you can harness the findings of this research to improve your skills and advocate for better outcomes for your clients. Here are key takeaways and actionable steps you can implement:
1. Employment
Employment is a crucial determinant of health, yet drug testing, criminal background checks, and professional licensure restrictions create significant barriers. Practitioners can:
- Advocate for the elimination or restriction of workplace drug testing.
- Support banning criminal background checks and licensure restrictions based on drug-related convictions.
- Provide resources and support for clients to access stable employment.
2. Housing
Stable housing is essential for health, but drug war policies often lead to evictions and homelessness. Practitioners can:
- Advocate for ending evictions based on drug-related activity or suspicion.
- Support Housing First programs and permanent supportive housing.
- Promote eviction protection for individuals who call for help during an overdose.
3. Education
Education is a strong predictor of health, yet punitive responses to drug use in schools can hinder students' success. Practitioners can:
- Oppose random drug testing and zero-tolerance policies in schools.
- Advocate for the removal of police from schools.
- Encourage counseling and support services for students who use drugs.
4. Public Benefits
Economic and food insecurity are linked to poor health outcomes, yet drug policies restrict access to public assistance. Practitioners can:
- Advocate for the removal of TANF and SNAP bans for individuals with felony drug convictions.
- Support ending drug testing requirements for public assistance.
- Promote adequate investment in public benefit programs.
5. Family Regulation
Drug war logic in the family regulation system often leads to family separation. Practitioners can:
- Advocate for policy changes to prohibit removals based on drug tests alone.
- Support practices that keep parents and infants together.
- Promote programs providing both perinatal healthcare and SUD treatment.
6. Substance Use Treatment System
Substance use treatment should be supportive, not punitive. Practitioners can:
- Ensure documentation of treatment progress is used judiciously.
- Prescribe buprenorphine and advocate for policy changes to expand access to OUD medications.
7. Healthcare System
People with SUDs often face stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings. Practitioners can:
- Receive training to work effectively with patients with SUDs.
- Advocate for the elimination of universal drug screening and testing in healthcare settings.
- Promote patient privacy and informed consent regarding drug testing and health records.
In conclusion, the impacts of the drug war on social determinants of health are profound and far-reaching. By understanding these effects and taking action, practitioners can play a crucial role in promoting health and wellbeing for individuals and communities. To read the original research paper, please follow this link:
How the war on drugs impacts social determinants of health beyond the criminal legal system.
