Bridging the Gap between Substance Abuse Practice and Research: The National Treatment Plan Initiative

Abstract

The abuse of alcohol and other drugs leads to serious health problems, criminal activity, automobile crashes, and lost productivity in the workplace. As we advocate treatment for those who suffer from alcohol or drug addiction, we must advocate treatment that is proven effective for the drug and populace involved. However, due to background, cultural, and language differences between substance abuse researchers, treatment providers, and policy makers, empirically tested treatments are not being put into widespread practice. To bridge this gap, the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment sponsored the National Treatment Plan Initiative, a two-year effort to listen to multiple segments of the treatment field. This led to the formation of the Practice Improvement Collaborative (PIC) Program, whose purpose is to foster community-based partnerships that are committed to the identification, adoption, and evaluation of evidence-based practices that address locally defined needs. The PIC and the overall goals of the National Treatment Plan are discussed.