The Community Use and Testing Study (CUTS) is an ongoing study of Rhode Island participants that combines drug checking services with biannual surveys. The project aims to examine the drug supply and use behaviors over time, and to understand if drug checking impacts an individual’s interest in treatment and other care opportunities. To enroll in the study, participants provide a drug sample for testing and complete a baseline survey. They are then followed to complete surveys every six months over an 18 month period. The CUTS team also offers drug checking services to the community, whether or not they are participants in the research project. 

 

The CUTS study coordinates with StreetCheck to collect and report de-identified drug checking results. Members of the CUTS team collect drug samples at participating locations and test them. The results of the samples are sent to StreetCheck for reporting. This ensures participants can easily access their results. CUTS also works to disseminate study results to community partners in Rhode Island through presentations and infographics, such as those shown below. 

 

Please note: As of March 2026, CUTS is no longer enrolling survey participants, but continues to conduct follow up surveys, facilitate focus groups, and offer community drug checking. If you believe you participated in the study and may be due for a follow up survey, please call or text 401-473-9286 or 401-408-6451.