Outcomes Framework
This framework defines how success is measured across the substance use disorder continuum. It aligns training, digital tools, and system solutions to outcomes that matter to funders, providers, and communities, including access to MOUD, engagement in care, coordination across partners, and equitable reach.
The framework is designed for use in pilots, Medicaid programs, grant-funded initiatives, and system-wide deployments.
Why a shared outcomes framework matters
Public agencies, funders, and providers are increasingly required to demonstrate not only activity, but measurable impact. This framework provides a consistent way to define, track, and report outcomes across diverse programs, without requiring organizations to replace their existing systems.
It supports:
SAMHSA and CDC grant reporting
Medicaid quality and waiver requirements
Justice and reentry program accountability
Continuous quality improvement
Four domains of impact
1. Access
Ability to initiate services, including MOUD, harm reduction, and recovery supports without unnecessary barriers.
2. Engagement
Ongoing participation in care, follow-up after overdose or discharge, and sustained connection to supports.
3. Coordination
Effective handoffs and information flow between peers, clinicians, community partners, and systems.
4. Equity
Reach and effectiveness across populations disproportionately affected by substance use, overdose, and system barriers.
These domains map directly to federal and state accountability frameworks.
How outcomes are measured
Measures are selected based on what can be realistically collected across real-world programs. Examples include:
Time to MOUD initiation
Follow-up after ED visits or incarceration
Retention in care or peer contact
Cross-provider referrals completed
Reach among priority populations
Measures can be adapted to meet the requirements of SAMHSA, Medicaid, courts, or grant funders.
How our solutions align to outcomes
Training and digital tools are mapped to the four outcome domains. For example:
MOUD navigation tools support Access
Post-overdose follow-up supports Engagement
Peer and family workflows support Coordination
Targeted outreach supports Equity
This alignment allows funders and systems to see how investments translate into measurable impact.
Use in pilots and funded programs
The framework is designed to be used in pilot programs, multi-site deployments, and grant-funded initiatives. It supports reporting to SAMHSA, CDC, Medicaid agencies, and other oversight bodies while remaining flexible enough for local implementation.
Let’s apply this framework to your program
We work with funders, agencies, and partners to apply this framework to real-world pilots, program redesign, and system improvement.