NCJ Number
102955
Journal
Newsweek Dated: (June 30, 1986) Pages: 52-53
Date Published
1986
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the drug treatment caseload under the new 'crack' epidemic, the types of treatment programs offered, their impact, and their costs.
Abstract
Publicly funded drug treatment programs have demands for services beyond their capacities, as many have long and growing waiting lists due to the epidemic of 'crack,' a potent form of cocaine. The duration of a treatment program is typically determined by the period covered by the addict's medical insurance, usually a maximum of 6 weeks. A 'crack' addiction is more difficult to break than a regular cocaine addiction. The better programs offer a multidisciplinary approach to the physical, emotional, and social aspects of addiction. At the beginning of treatment, the patient usually does best in a residential facility. Some doctors prescribe medication to help addicts through detoxification, but the effects of combining strong prescription drugs with 'crack' are not known. One New York City program, Aurora Concept, Inc., aims to remold the addict's personality through organized peer pressure. Treatment costs can range from $8,300 to $21,000 for 6 weeks of a residential program. Experts estimate recidivism at approximately 90 percent for even the better programs. The average addict must typically undergo two or three treatment cycles to achieve long-term progress in defeating the addiction.