Pubdate: Thu, 13 Sep 2012
Source: Chico News & Review, The (CA)
Copyright: 2012 Chico Community Publishing, Inc.
Contact:  http://www.newsreview.com/chico/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/559

Healthlines

DRUGS FOR DRUG ADDICTS

Report Calls for Removal of Ban on Medical Treatment at Addiction Clinics

A report issued by the Senate Office of Oversight and Outcomes calls 
for California lawmakers to lift a ban on health-care services at 
residential drug-treatment facilities.

California has long banned prescriptions or other medical services at 
private inpatient drug-treatment clinics because treatment was based 
on self-help and peer-support groups, according to California Watch. 
But health experts now generally consider addiction a disorder that 
can require medication.

The report found the law runs counter to guidelines set by health 
insurers and accreditation groups expecting detoxing patients to have 
access to medication during their stay. The investigators also found 
the Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs to be inconsistent in its 
enforcement of the law.

"Almost everyone involved in the current system of regulating 
residential drug and alcohol programs agrees that it doesn't work and 
is not good for clients," the authors wrote.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom