However, our review showed that the reliability, validity and other qualities of the ADS and DAST, currently used by the Service as part of the CLAI, are as good as or better than any comparable instrument available. Although there are several excellent comprehensive assessment batteries currently available, the CLAI is possibly the most comprehensive. Further, we can find no compelling reason to suggest the use of any other comprehensive battery in its place. Nevertheless, one shortcoming is that the CLAI does not screen for neurological deficits. This is particularly problematic given that substance abusers, especially those with severe alcohol problems, commonly have neurological deficits that can interfere with treatment response.
Several instruments assess specific treatment and relapse prevention targets.
Although prominent substance abuse programs of the Correctional Service of Canada have adopted some of these measures, additional measures boasting excellent psychometric properties should also be considered for inclusion. Currently, laboratory tests are of fairly limited utility in determining the severity of a problem or in assessing treatment targets, particularly among incarcerated populations, although some assessments, particularly those designed to measure recent use, are helpful in monitoring abstinence compliance. Our review revealed that the substance abuse domain of the CNIA covers all the essential areas required to ensure that an existing problem is spotted and offers some indication of problem severity. Nevertheless, how those content areas are measured and defined could be enhanced. One strategy for improvement might be to reduce the level of subjectivity associated with the scoring of certain indicators.