02/10/2025
Dissertation Defense Announcement
Doctoral Candidate: Robert R. Near, M.P.A. (Cohort 2018)
Title: ASSESSING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COMBAT EXPOSURE, WARTIME SERVICE, AND BARRIERS TO SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER TREATMENT IN POST 9/11 VETERANS.
Dissertation Committee – Chair, Kieran Fogarty, Ph.D.; Rob Lyerla, Ph.D., MGIS; Decker B. Hains, Ph.D., P.E., PMP, FASCE.
Date/Time: Feb 27, 2025 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Place: Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82416553986
Meeting ID: 824 1655 3986
Abstract: Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) represent a critical public health concern, particularly among post-9/11 veterans who face unique challenges stemming from combat exposure, systemic barriers, and cultural stigma. This study examines the factors influencing SUD treatment-seeking behaviors among this population, with a focus on combat exposure, perceived barriers, and demographic variables such as age, gender, income, and race/ethnicity. Using data from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), a nationally representative sample of 59,069 participants was analyzed to explore these dynamics.
The findings reveal significant disparities in treatment-seeking behaviors. Combat exposure was associated with a higher prevalence of SUDs (21.5%) compared to non-combat veterans (12.8%) and the general population (9.6%), though it was not a significant predictor of treatment-seeking behavior. Instead, systemic barriers, such as financial constraints, stigma, and racial/ethnic inequities, emerged as primary determinants. For example, veterans earning over $75,000 annually were 3.42 times more likely to seek treatment compared to their lower-income counterparts. Additionally, racial and ethnic disparities persisted, with Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic veterans exhibiting lower treatment-seeking rates compared to Non-Hispanic White veterans.
This research highlights the need for targeted interventions to address financial barriers, reduce stigma, and promote culturally competent and trauma-informed care. By identifying these barriers and their impact on treatment engagement, the study provides actionable insights for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to enhance care access and improve outcomes for post-9/11 veterans.
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