Going to the hospital and getting treatment might include one extra step for marginalized teens. A new study by Los Angeles-based researchers finds injured minority teens who present at trauma centers who are Black, American Indian, or Hispanic, undergo drug and alcohol screenings more often than white adolescents. The same is true of female and uninsured or Medicaid-insured teens.

This study highlights the racial and gender disparities in healthcare and the potential for unconscious bias in medical practices. For people undergoing drug addiction treatment, it also highlights the importance of addressing systemic racism and discrimination to provide equal access to care for all.

Specifics of the Study

The study, examining drug and alcohol screenings among adolescents, was published on October 4, 2024, in the JAMA Network Open. This study, led by researcher Jordan M. Rook, MD, of the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, looked at over 85,000 adolescents aged 12 to 17 who received treatment at 121 ACS-verified pediatric trauma centers across the US between 2017 and 2021.

The results of the study showed that, while the American College of Surgeons (ACS) guidelines for mental health and substance abuse screening and intervention recommend universal screening for substance use in at least 80% of trauma patients, only a dismal 21.8% of adolescents studied were screened for drug use.

Among those tested, the study showed that:

  • Black and American Indians were more likely to be screened than White adolescents
  • Hispanic adolescents were more likely to be screened than non-Hispanic adolescents
  • Medicaid-insured and uninsured adolescents were more likely screened than those privately insured
  • Female adolescents were more likely to be screened than males

These disparities are nothing short of shocking, and even upsetting. They highlight the fact that even trained medical providers in high-stress environments, such as trauma centers, may not be immune to implicit biases and systemic racism.

The Importance of Equal Access to Care for Marginalized Teens

The findings of this study serve as a stark reminder that equal access to care is crucial for providing effective treatment and interventions for adolescents struggling with substance abuse. Sadly, drug overdose and poisoning continue to be the third leading cause of childhood death, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The Faces of Addiction

It’s important to remember that addiction knows no race, gender, or socioeconomic status. Peer pressure, accidental overdoses, and self-medicating to cope with trauma or mental health issues can affect anyone. By addressing systemic barriers and providing equal access to care, we can better support all adolescents in need of help, regardless of their background.

Sadly, implicit medical bias is nothing new, especially in drug and addiction treatment. Older studies on healthcare provider attitudes show health professionals generally have a negative attitude toward patients with substance use disorders.

These biases from those people turn to for help can have a profound impact on an adolescent’s recovery journey. It is crucial to address these biases and provide appropriate training and education for healthcare providers to ensure they are providing the best possible care for all patients, regardless of their background.

Addressing Implicit Biases of Substance Use Disorders

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to get healthcare professionals, much less the general public, to recognize the need for change regarding implicit biases. The first step is education and awareness, acknowledging that these biases exist and actively working to challenge and dismantle them.

This new study is a great example of how seemingly routine interactions can be impacted by implicit biases. From conducting a drug screening to prescribing medication, healthcare providers must be mindful of their own biases and work to provide equitable care for all adolescents with or without substance use disorder.

How Can We Help Marginalized Teens and Non-Marginalized Teenes with Substance Use Disorder?

While the road to equitable care for adolescents with substance use disorder may be long, there are steps we can take to help them on their recovery journey. There healthcare providers and loved ones can do to help reduce the stigma surrounding teens and drug use.

  • Have an open conversation: Opening up about drug use, its side effects, and negative health consequences is difficult even for adults, let alone teens with drug addiction. As a parent, teacher, or healthcare provider, it’s important to have an open and non-judgmental conversation about drugs and addiction. This creates a safe space for teens to ask questions and seek help.
  • Educate yourself: Before having these conversations with teens, it’s essential to educate ourselves on substance use disorder. Understanding how addiction works and the different treatment options available can help us provide better support to adolescents struggling with drug use.
  • Provide emotional support: Adolescence can be a confusing and challenging time, even without substance use disorder. Always make it a priority to provide emotional support for teens going through this difficult journey. Whether it’s therapy, counseling or simply listening without judgment, this support can make a significant difference in their recovery process.
  • Enroll in addiction treatment early: Waiting until someone is older or thinking substance use is “just a phase” can delay necessary treatment and lead to more severe consequences. It’s crucial to seek help for teens with substance use disorder as early as possible, increasing their chances of successful recovery.

Seek Help for Teen Addiction Treatment Now

Getting help for treatment can be scary, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. If you’re a teen or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, seek help now. There are various resources available, including helplines, support groups, and treatment facilities designed specifically for adolescents. At American Addiction Foundation, our goal is to help you find the perfect treatment option for yourself or your loved one. Don’t wait until it’s too late; seek help and start the journey to recovery today by calling us at 1-800-425-1564.