Building Integrated Capacity for Addiction Recovery: Evaluating Interdisciplinary Training at the HART Hub of Simcoe County

Background: The Homeless and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hub of Simcoe County, Ontario, was developed as an integrated model of care to support individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, and complex health needs. The program unites community mental health, hospitals, addictions treatment, housing, and Indigenous health partners under one coordinated system. To establish a strong interdisciplinary foundation, Dr. Ginette Poulin provided specialized addictions treatment training for newly hired staff.

 

Methods: Twenty professionals, including social workers, nurses, nurse practitioners, and housing workers, participated in the training. The curriculum, developed by Dr. Poulin, included evidence-based instruction on substance use disorders, behavioural addictions, urgent and emergent issues, and practical management strategies. Pre- and post-training questionnaires were administered to assess changes in participant knowledge and confidence.

 

Results: Nineteen participants completed both assessments. All demonstrated measurable improvement, with some increasing their scores by up to seven points. Participants also reported enhanced understanding of addiction complexity, reduced stigma toward clients, and improved collaboration across professional boundaries. The shared learning environment fostered mutual respect, trust, and a stronger sense of team identity.

 

Implications: The evaluation demonstrated that structured, cross-sector addictions training not only improves knowledge but also strengthens interdisciplinary relationships, workforce resilience, and professional retention. Embedding collaborative education within integrated care systems can significantly enhance program sustainability and improve outcomes for individuals navigating homelessness and addiction recovery.