The Addiction Policy Forum, with support from the HEALing Communities Study (HCS), is seeking applications to participate in a six-session Virtual Learning Collaborative (VLC) on building data dashboards. Many states and jurisdictions across the country are utilizing data dashboards to identify trends, evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies, and inform the development of targeted interventions to quell the ongoing substance use disorder and overdose crisis.
This VLC will provide guidance on the development of data dashboards, and insights into anticipatory challenges with implementation and use within communities. Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn from leading subject matter experts who will share their experiences and best practices.
About Data Dashboards
Data dashboards are powerful tools that can support community engagement and decision-making by providing public health surveillance and early detection of emerging health threats, as well as facilitating efficient resource allocation. Effective dashboards serve as a transparent and customizable platform for communicating critical information in easy-to-understand, interactive formats (e.g., charts, graphs, and maps) to policymakers, stakeholders, community members, and the public.
As part of the HCS, a multi-site research study that tested the impact of an integrated set of evidence-based practices to reduce fatal opioid-related overdose, researchers from four participating research sites (in New York, Massachusetts, Kentucky, and Ohio) developed data dashboards to support data-driven decision-making.
What can you expect from the VLC?
Participate in one virtual kick-off meeting and five virtual learning sessions (six sessions total) led by experts who will provide guidance on dashboard creation, including best practices, lessons learned, and innovative strategies.
Learn about fundamental principles and practical techniques of dashboard creation, such as acquiring and integrating data, design principles, user experience, implementation, sustainability, and more.
Understand the latest tools and technologies to create dynamic and interactive dashboards.
Hear real-world case studies and best practices for implementing and sustaining dashboard functionality and relevance over time.
Receive information and resources for developing dashboards, as well as a set of standardized measures used by HCS for data collection.
What can you gain from the VLC?
VLC participants will have access to a unique opportunity to learn from subject matter experts who have led groundbreaking efforts in data dashboard development, implementation, and sustainability through HCS. Specific opportunities and resources will include:
Instruction on data selection, access, display, and engagement
Access to faculty and experts in data dashboard development
Facilitated peer-learning opportunities
Technical assistance
Tools and resources to support dashboard development, implementation, and sustainability
Who should apply?
We encourage applications from a wide range of organizations and entities interested in learning more about data dashboards. This includes, but is not limited to:
State, local, and tribal government agencies
Public health departments
Community-based organizations
Criminal justice agencies
Research and academic institutions
Whether your organization or agency has no prior experience with data dashboards or vast experience with them, the VLC is designed to provide resources and support tailored to your needs. For those new to data dashboards, the VLC offers foundational training and step-by-step guidance to help you get started. Experienced users can benefit from best practices and lessons learned from expert faculty.
Timeline and Dates
Application Deadline: August 16, 2024, at 11:59 PM EST.
Selection Announcement: September 2024
Virtual Kickoff Meeting (1-2 hours): October 2024
Virtual Peer Learning Sessions (1–2 hours): November, December 2024, January, February, and March 2025
Apply Today!
If you want to apply to join the Virtual Learning Collaborative, please complete this application by 11:59 PM EST on Friday, August 16, 2024. Space is limited.
For any questions, please email Braeden Kelly at bkelly@addictionpolicy.org.
Meet the Faculty
The VLC will comprise subject matter experts representing each of the HCS study sites.
Jennifer Villani, PhD, MPH
Associate Director of the HEALing Communities Study,
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Naleef Fareed, PhD
Associate Professor,
The Ohio State University College of Medicine
Timothy Huerta, PhD
Professor,
The Ohio State University College of Medicines
Elwin Wu, PhD
Professor of Social Work,
Columbia University
Daniel Harris, PhD
Associate Professor,
University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy
Marc LaRochelle, MD, MPH
Attending Physician,
Boston Medical Center
Peter Balvanz, MPH
Associate Director of Informatics,
Boston Medical Center
About the HEALing Communities Study
The HEALing Communities Study (HCS) includes scientists from the nation’s leading health agencies and major research and academic institutions to investigate the effectiveness of communities using local data to inform the selection of evidence-based tools for preventing and treating opioid misuse and opioid use disorder. The robust initiative includes 67 communities across four states. HCS is supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) in partnership with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and is part of the Helping to End Addiction Long-term Initiative, or NIH HEAL Initiative, a bold effort to speed scientific solutions to stem the national opioid crisis.