Developing a Holistic and Inclusive Competency Framework for the Addiction Workforce: Insights from a Transdisciplinary Team of Addiction Professionals

Abstract

The addiction workforce encompasses a diverse group of professionals across various sectors, such as prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery. Training for this workforce is highly variable both at local and international levels, influenced by differences in drug policies, regulatory frameworks, and educational systems across regions. The need for a more holistic and inclusive competency framework has become increasingly apparent to address these disparities. METHODS: This article draws on insights from a transdisciplinary team involved in the European WAVE (Workforce Addiction - Valorisation in Europe) project. Through expert meetings, we discussed the comprehensiveness and cross-disciplinary suitability of a pre-developed list of core competencies needed to strengthen the addiction-related workforce in clinical, academic, and civil society sectors. RESULTS: A series of online meetings with 21 participants from 16 different countries were held. Key competencies identified included clinical skills, interdisciplinary collaboration, research literacy, pedagogical expertise, advocacy, legal and regulatory knowledge, and harm reduction. It was found that while clinical competencies remain essential, additional competencies are required to meet the diverse and evolving needs of individuals, communities, and systems affected by addiction. CONCLUSION: This work emphasizes the importance of a more inclusive and interdisciplinary competency framework that extends beyond clinical care to include skills such as research literacy, advocacy, and collaboration. Training programs need a broader and tailored integration of these competencies to ensure that professionals are equipped to address the complexities of addiction in diverse contexts.