Future

Given the momentum, we can predict that recovery residences will increasingly be a part of the national dialog. In 2021, the Bidden-Harris Administration highlighted recovery housing as one of its Year-1 priorities. This level of attention will invite recovery residences to develop strategies around:

• Voluntary Certification in all States and Territories – Policymakers have become aware of the corrupt business practices, and voluntary certification promotes quality while protecting residents’ rights. A tipping point in politics will lead to widespread policy change.
• Health Equity – While there is a shortage of services overall, systemic racism and marginalization have resulted in more considerable barriers and gaps. As a part of the social justice movement, recovery residences will need to develop strategies to promote health equity.
• Best Practices for Special Population – To better support underserved and unserved populations, recovery residence must adopt best practices to be culturally and linguistically responsive. Specialty training and endorsements could be developed and inform consumers, referral agents,s and funder choices—for example, MAT Recovery Housing endorsement.
• Recovery Housing Workforce Development – In 2021, SAMHSA recognized recovery housing managers as a unique workforce role, which will lead to more training. In addition, more states are requiring Recovery Residence Administrator training to be a part of voluntary certification.

More Research – Advances in the field will require more research at the resident, house, and system level.