The size of treatment systems is proving to be less important than the quality of services delivered within that system. What we know about addictions may be converging but the response necessary to make a difference is diverging. Now more than ever, it is clear that a single answer does not exist. We know that a variety of responses from many sectors are necessary to have a true impact on addiction problems. Policies for prevention and treatment must be based on sound research to ensure their efficacy and cost effectiveness.
Many different stakeholders have a role to play.
Integrated government policies must work in concert with national and local non-governmental agencies to address issues of supply and demand reduction. A focus on the role of parents and the wider community is essential to the development of a comprehensive and effective approach to addictions. Clearly, addiction service providers are not alone and although the picture may have become more complex it also means that there are more players and a greater variety of ways to work together to more successful outcomes. Researchers were attempting to determine a basis for matching clients to treatment. The results did not support the need to match clients to treatment.