Pubdate: Wed, 26 Mar 2014
Source: Star-Ledger (Newark, NJ)
Copyright: 2014 Newark Morning Ledger Co
Contact:  http://www.nj.com/starledger/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/424
Author: Donald J. Parker

NEW JERSEY'S DRUG PROBLEM

In reference to The Star-Ledger's March 18 article, "Report presents
road map to fight youth addiction," I applaud the efforts and resolve
of the Governor's Council on Alcoholism & Drug Abuse's report related
to the state's heroin problem. Based on the number of fatalities
statewide and in Ocean County, this is truly a public health crisis.

I agree with task force chairman Frank Greenagel's statement, "It is
time to confront our demons. Our state needs an intervention." This
intervention starts with looking at how prescribers, insurance and
treatment are part of this complex relationship.

Here at the Blake Recovery Center at Carrier Clinic, we too see the
shortened length of stays for opiate treatment and, in many cases,
insurance denying inpatient treatment. These individuals are then
pushed to lesser levels of care, which may not be the best first
course of action for recovery.

We support the efforts of the Governor's Council and this report, and
stand at the ready to play our role in this statewide
intervention.

Donald J. Parker, CEO and president, Carrier Clinic
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MAP posted-by: Matt