We need to embrace new ideas, including the medical treatment of addiction by primary care physicians in hospitals and office-based settings. Since addiction has psychosocial components, ancillary services such as substance abuse counseling, mental health counseling, vocational counselors and social services are an important part of treatment. Most of these services already exist in our hospitals and in our communities. Physicians could refer their patients to local services for ancillary services. It is important that the professionals who treat these patients assist the patient to develop a positive attitude, self esteem and encourage self-empowerment.
Addicts come from diverse backgrounds.
Treatment providers must be representative of the diversity of patients in order for patients to feel comfortable communicating their needs. Dignity and respect are requirements for successful treatment. Education is the key to success in building a system for the treatment of heroin addiction in Vermont. As it turns out, I had to tell that poor mother that her son must look for treatment out of state, unless he could endure the wait until Vermont's treatment system is in place. But his needs are too immediate.