Work

Research support networks for substance use translational research: a qualitative evaluation of the HEAL data to action (HD2A) program

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background NIH-funded research has been increasingly conducted in collaborative consortia of investigators with the support of coordinating centers. However, the extent to which such initiatives help to accomplish NIH goals and objectives with respect to the translation of research to practice remains unclear. We evaluated implementation barriers and facilitators experienced by the individual Helping to End Addiction Long-term ® Initiative or HEAL Initiative ® Data2Action (HD2A) Program projects targeting overdose reduction, opioid use disorder treatment, and pain management and the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of HD2A Program components to address these barriers and facilitators. Methods Data were collected from semi-structured group interviews and interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Principal investigators and key personnel ( n = 36) for each of the 10 NIDA-funded HD2A projects annually beginning in March 2023. Members of the three support centers ( n = 8) were also interviewed in January 2025. Results Two overall themes with several subthemes were identified: (1) implementation barriers, facilitators, and strategies of individual projects; and (2) assessment of the HD2A Program and its four distinctive features as a multifaceted implementation strategy. The R61/R33 mechanism was regarded as feasible, acceptable and appropriate for addressing barriers and planning for full implementation. Interactions with other HD2A projects was limited but viewed favorably by all grantees. All projects obtained needed guidance and support from the three research support centers in addressing barriers and planning for implementation, particularly through supplemental funding to support rapid data infrastructure projects. However, some investigators reported their interactions with the centers as burdensome and a distraction from more immediate needs, Harmonization of data across the projects was not evident due to a lack of guidance and coordination prior to submission of applications for funding, specific nature being collected by each project, and restrictions to data sharing by organizations providing data. Conclusions Initiatives to bring together diverse projects having a common aim or theme create opportunities for accessing needed support for implementation and collaboration across projects as intended. Nevertheless, greater engagement between those providing technical assistance and those receiving it and stipulating common data elements should occur prior to submission of applications for funding.

Source: Substance Abuse Treatment Prevention and Policy

DOI: 10.1186/s13011-026-00765-y