Washington DC, March 31, 2010—Men and women with severe alcohol and drug use problems have been stigmatized and have suffered from lack of adequate treat¬ment and recovery resources. Now, with the promise of enhanced insurance coverage as parity and healthcare reform legislation take effect, it’s important to turn our attention to how substance use disorders can be treated most effectively. A new report from the National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare (National Council) examines the integration of substance use treatments into patient-centered healthcare homes.

According to federal estimates, approximately 22.2 million people have a substance use or dependence disorder in a year. Spending on substance abuse treatment is projected to increase to $35 billion annually by 2014.

The National Council report, Substance Use Disorders and the Person-Centered Healthcare Home, emphasizes that substance use disorders are often chronic health conditions requiring ongoing care management to help patients manage their medical conditions and improve health status, in order to reduce spending on medical services.

“Our society and government must acknowledge that addictions are not moral failings but health conditions — often chronic — for which science-based treatments are available,” said Linda Rosenberg, President and CEO of the National Council. “The National Council’s new report advocates for treatment of chronic substance use disorders in a healthcare home, where all health conditions are treated. Persons who get help in managing their substance use disorders can live productive lives,” she added.

Substance use disorders can cause or worsen other chronic health conditions. Patients receiving substance use treatment from specialty providers usually do not seek care anywhere else for other health issues.

Patient-centered healthcare homes are best suited to treat persons with chronic conditions. In these homes, medical teams, which include nurse managers and substance use treatment professionals, provide complete care management and support individuals in reaching their health goals.

The National Council report reiterates that seamless integrated care is essential to treat all health conditions of persons with substance use disorders. The report recommends that screening and treatment for substance use disorders must occur in primary care as well as in specialty mental health/substance use treatment settings. Featured case studies highlight how primary care and specialty providers can work together to address treatment needs. The report also emphasizes the importance of preventive care and wellness programs in all settings.

The full report is available here. A National Council webinar on April 6 at 2 pm eastern will discuss the issues highlighted in the report. Registration is open to the public.

The National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare is a not-for- profit, 501(c)(3) association of 1,700 behavioral healthcare organizations that provide treatment and rehabilitation for mental illnesses and addiction disorders to nearly six million adults, children and families in communities across the country. The National Council and its members bear testimony to the fact that medical, social, psychological and rehabilitation services offered in community settings help people with mental illnesses and addiction disorders recover and lead productive lives.