White paper reveals digital tools driving recovery success in West Virginia
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — A recently published paper from CHESS Health, WVU Health Affairs Institute, and the West Virginia Department of Human Services, Bureau for Behavioral Health, highlights how digital health tools are transforming recovery outcomes for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) across the state.
Key Findings at a Glance:
- More than 12,000 West Virginians were enrolled in digital recovery support via the Connections smartphone app.
- Average user engagement spanned 177 days, demonstrating long-term commitment
- The platform delivered more than 2,300 crisis interventions during moments of acute need
- A 23.7% reduction in relapse risk behaviors was observed among participants
The white paper details how CHESS Health’s eRecovery platform, including the Connections and Compani
on apps along with a digital contingency management program, has helped expand access to care by addressing persistent challenges such as geographic distance, capacity constraints in treatment settings, and gaps in ongoing recovery support.
“With West Virginia leading the nation in overdose deaths, we knew families needed a place to turn,” said Christena Ross, MS, PMP, of WVU Health Affairs Institute, said. “The Companion app was created to support those who love someone with SUD, offering connection, resources, and community to help them cope through the journey.”
Innovating recovery support
Through state partnership with CHESS Health, West Virginia deployed the Connections app in April 2020 at no cost to residents and providers. The app provides evidence-based support, including peer-moderated groups, digital cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), crisis assistance, progress tracking, journaling, and goal setting.
Building on that foundation, the Companion app was later introduced to support families and loved ones with educational resources, moderated online communities, daily reflections, and virtual group meetings.
Supporting diverse communities, saving lives
The white paper emphasizes the impact of digital interventions on underserved populations, including justice-involved individuals, women with children, rural residents, and those living with Hepatitis C. According to CHESS Health, partnerships with Health Affairs Institute and public sector agencies were critical in expanding reach.
The full white paper is available for review and download on the CHESS Health website.
