Substance Use Among Healthcare Workers
Ritu Kanchan
Co-Presenters: Sarah Yee, Richie Panuyas, Hunter Walden, Christopher Elwood
College: The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major: Physician Assistant Studies (M.S.)
Faculty Research Mentor: Wendy Ritch
Abstract:
Title: Substance Use Among Healthcare WorkersAuthor: Kanchan, R., Yee, S., Elwood C., Panuyas R., Walden, H.Abstract:PURPOSESubstance use among healthcare workers is a significant issue that can impact both personal well-being of medical professionals as well as patient outcomes. This study aims to assess the prevalence and severity of substance use disorders in healthcare professionals using DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. By examining substance use patterns in relation to demographics such as age, gender, and ethnicity, the research seeks to identify patterns, risk factors, and inform future directions in workplace management of their employees' health and patient safety.METHODSA survey was administered to healthcare workers, collecting demographic data and responses to DSM-5 substance use disorder criteria. Participants were categorized based on the degree of their substance use according to the number of DSM-5 criteria met. The data was cleaned to remove incomplete responses and analyzed to determine what substances are most commonly used among healthcare professionals associated with different demographics.FINDINGS/RESULTSPreliminary findings consisted of 48 responses of which only 31 were utilized. Six respondents were male and 25 were female. They included 2 Hispanics, 3 Middle Easterners, 20 Caucasians, 2 mixed ethnicities, and 3 others. The study aimed to compare the severity of substance use across demographics. The study’s results showed no correlation between demographics and substance use disorder among healthcare workers.CONCLUSIONSCertain healthcare professionals may be at higher risk of substance use disorder, however, this study’s sample was limited in terms of profession. However, it still highlights the need for targeted interventions, including workplace education, support programs, and policy changes to address substance use among healthcare workers.SIGNIFICANCE/NOVELTYThis research contributes to the limited body of literature on substance use within the healthcare workforce by providing a data-driven analysis of risk factors and severity levels. The findings have significant implications for occupational health policies and the development of intervention strategies aimed at reducing substance use in high-risk healthcare roles. Understanding these patterns can lead to more effective support mechanisms and improved patient care outcomes.Keywords: Healthcare Workers, Substance Use Disorder, DSM-5, Occupational Health, Workplace Interventions