Preface

This book presents modifiable system level factors that may contribute to improving prevention and treatment of substance use disorders (SUD). The authors offer key insights on evidence-based interventions at the program and service delivery levels, particularly tailored to underserved population groups. For instance, the authors provide theory-based approaches to prevention (e.g. Familia Adelante), as well as spiritual, technical, and managerial approaches to treat SUDs and build capacity to deliver effective care. Overall, effective care in this book generally relates to delivering tested evidence-based practices (EBP) at the policy, management, and clinical service levels. The effective processes and practices that directly support the delivery of EBPs include case examples that invite reflection.

The idea for this book emerged from the growing need to understand how policy and management practices can support the effectiveness of clinical interventions. Most funding from government and private foundations is directed to randomized clinical trials in drug treatment, most of which are never implemented in regular care. Growing evidence suggests that building organizational capacity is necessary to improve fidelity in the implementation of EBPs resulting in greater effectiveness. The editors had two goals in mind for this book. First, to introduce to a wide audience promising modifiable factors that may improve systems of care, and second to invite policy and organizational scholars to expand on the proposed models and further examine how system factors can reduce the significant burden of substance abuse in our society.

We appreciate the thoughtful reviewers who made sure the contents of this book advance the state of knowledge. We are also thankful to colleagues who provided critical feedback throughout the chapter writing process. As editors, we are thankful to the authors included in this book for their significant contribution, and to their research assistants for supporting this effort.

Dr Guerrero is eternally grateful to his wife, Emma, and his two-year old daughter, Sophie, for their unconditional love and support, and for their encouragement to bring this book together. He is also thankful to the iSATed team for standing by him all these years and helping him and Dr Khachikian with this and other scholarly projects.

Dr Khachikian is first and foremost thankful to Dr Guerrero for inviting her to edit and contribute to this book alongside him. She would also like to thank her wonderful husband, Arnold, and her new bundle of joy, Aviana, for their support in completing this book.

> **Erick G. Guerrero, Ph.D.** I-Lead Institute, Research to End Healthcare Disparities Corp, Santa Monica, CA, USA
