SAMHSA Strategic Prevention
The Drug-Free Communities Support Program initiative utilizes the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) developed by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
The five elements that make up the SPF assist communities in developing the infrastructure needed for a community-based, public health approach leading to effective and sustainable reductions in alcohol, tobacco, and other drug (ATOD) use and abuse.
The five elements are:
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Assessment. Collect data to define problems, resources, and readiness within a geographic area to address needs and gaps.
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Capacity. Mobilize and/or build capacity within a geographic area to address needs.
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Planning. Develop a comprehensive strategic planthat includes policies, programs, and practices creating a logical, data-driven plan to address problems identified in Step 1.
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Implementation. Implement evidence-based prevention programs, policies, and practices.
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Evaluation. Measure the impact of the SPF and the implemented programs, policies, and practices.
Additionally, Sustainability and Cultural Competence have been added to the core of the framework as both are necessary in developing an effective coalition.
SAMHSA's Prevention Platform
SAMHSA's Prevention Platform is a Web-based application that helps communities undertake each of the five steps outlined in the SPF process.
The technology platform includes user paths that are customized to individual responses. SAMHSA also has an extensive database of online training and curricula.
This systemic community-based approach aims to ensure that substance abuse prevention programs can and do produce results, and moves the country closer to a nation in which citizens use the powers of prevention to lead healthier, longer lives.