The Arkansas State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup (SEOW ) was developed in 2005. Initially funded through the SPF State Incentive Grant (SIG) with continued support from the (2013-2018) Strategic Prevention Framework-Partnerships for Success (SPF-PFS) Grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (SAMHSA/CSAP), SEOW is housed in the Arkansas Department of Human Services’ Division of Aging, Adult and Behavioral Health Services (DAABHS). The SEOW is a nexus of state agency representatives, policy makers, researchers, community representatives and other stakeholders committed to engaging in data-driven exchanges of ideas in order to inform unified substance use prevention messaging and priorities across the state. The current charter represents an extension of SEOW’s important service to citizens and policymakers in Arkansas. SEOW serves as a forum for policymakers, researchers and community representatives to have a data-driven exchange of ideas.

Our mission

The mission of SEOW is to guide successful prevention efforts in the state of Arkansas by:

• Analyzing, monitoring and sharing data trends in substance use and other environmental, behavioral, and health-related factors.
• Informing data-driven policy and practice decision-making regarding prevention priorities at local and state levels.
• Disseminating evidence-based education and prevention materials to the larger public.

Our goals

The three primary goals of SEOW are:

• Serve as the clearinghouse for data on substance use and health-related risks, protective factors, prevention strategies, and outcomes in Arkansas
• Help develop and disseminate a statewide unified prevention message
• Help expand public awareness and education about substance use and related outcomes

Linkage with Prevention System

SEOW will support DAABHS and MidSOUTH in the decision-making process regarding the delivery of prevention services. SEOW will facilitate interagency communication and collaboration regarding data. Epidemiological profiles and other work products will be used for detailed assessment of priority areas and prevention effectiveness efforts, as well as provide information for stakeholders, community education, and prevention efforts.

Workgroup Members

The workgroup includes a core membership consisting of representatives from DAABHS, MidSOUTH the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (SEOW Staff), Regional Prevention Providers, and Regional Lead Agencies. DAABHS and MidSOUTH hold primary decision-making authority for SEOW activities. Operational partners are drawn from various state and contracting agencies, including relevant data experts, state and community leadership, and constituencies affected directly or indirectly by substance use and/or behavioral health issues.