Understand the Institute of Medicine's Prevention Classifications and and the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention's Six Implementation Strategies

This one-page handout developed by WV Prevention Solutions provides a comprehensive overview of the Institute of Medicine (IOM) Model and the Six CSAP Prevention Strategies used in substance use prevention. The resource is designed to help prevention professionals, coalition members, and community partners clearly understand how prevention activities align with national frameworks established by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The IOM Model section outlines three levels of prevention — Universal, Selective, and Indicated — explaining how each category targets specific populations based on their level of risk for substance use. Examples are provided to help practitioners identify which IOM category best fits their programs or initiatives. Each strategy includes a concise explanation and practical examples to support implementation and evaluation. Together, these two frameworks provide a foundation for developing, organizing, and reporting prevention activities within West Virginia’s substance use prevention system. The handout supports  consistency in program planning across counties and coalitions.