Methamphetamine Expanded Treatment (MERIT) Program

Contact:

Heidi Herinckx   503-725-5958   herinch@pdx.edu
Sandra Swart     503-725-8128   sswart@pdx.edu

Methamphetamine Early Response Intervention Team (MERIT) Program integrates two best practice models of treatment, the Matrix Model (stimulant addiction treatment) and Strengths-based Case Management to treat individuals with methamphetamine abuse. MERIT is a three-year Targeted Capacity Expansion grant funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The MERIT program received its grant award in August 2005 and is funded through July 2008.

Methamphetamine abuse is sweeping the nation, and has reached epidemic proportions along the West Coast. This three-year project will expand Josephine County, Oregon's capacity to reduce methamphetamine abuse among adults in the county, helping them to establish a clean and sober lifestyle, improving their physical health and the quality of their lives, and reducing episodes of criminality, homelessness, and psychiatric crisis. Through this project, Josephine County will increase its capacity to treat individuals with methamphetamine abuse by a single integrated Care Coordination team trained to provide both Matrix and Strength-based Case management best-practice models.

The Regional Research Institute at Portland State University is conducting a comprehensive process and outcome evaluation of the MERIT program. Over the project period, the RRI will evaluate the programs effectiveness, disseminate program outcomes and develop a manualized approach to treatment of methamphetamine abuse.

Related Links

Options for Southern Oregon - http://www.optionsonline.org/SAMHSA%20Grants%202005.htm

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration - http://www.samhsa.gov/