TREATMENT ON DEMAND: AN OLD CRY, STILL UNANSWERED

In 1988 the Presidential Commission on the Human Immunodeficiency Virus issued its report. Among other things it called for “…greatly expanded [addiction] treatment capacity, with the goal of treatment on demand...“ (page XVIII). So...how does one measure the adequacy of the treatment capacity for opiate-dependent individuals? Very simply: by the ability to publicize that treatment on demand exists, and by doing everything possible to encourage those who need help to seek it. And where in the United States does one see public service announcements to this effect? Cynics might well conclude that no one gives a damn. Meanwhile the common-sense conclusion of the Commission more than two decades ago continues to be ignored.