ARCH Patient Outcomes Evaluation

This study examined whether exposure to enhanced multidisciplinary care for an inner-city population lead to improved health care resource use, social stability, and health status compared to usual care. Our primary outcome of interest was the impact of the ARCH intervention on emergency department use. Secondary outcomes included primary care attachment, substance use, housing, and unmet needs for care. This study was complemented by an economic evaluation and a qualitative process evaluation.

Patients eligible for recruitment to this study were those with: 

1) Unstable housing,
2) No stable income, and/or
3) Active substance use

Patients were recruited by the ARCH team at the RAH site, and a comparison group was recruited from two clinical sites in Calgary (the Peter Lougheed Centre and the Sheldon Chumir Centre). Study participants provided baseline and follow-up survey data, and allowed access to their health and social service records. Altogether, participant data was collected for an 18 month study period, including 6 months prior to and 12 months following baseline.

The results of this study have the potential to inform the systematic development and implementation of acute care interventions in meeting the needs of inner-city patients who use drugs and/or experience social instability.

Resources

Study Lead: Ginetta Salvalaggio

Funding Support: Alberta Innovates Health Solutions (AIHS) and the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation (RAHF)

Status: Complete