Research
Survey: National Study of Public Attitudes Toward Addiction
The survey found that advocates who say addiction should be treated as a public health issue and not a criminal problem have broad public support.
Key points from the study include:
- 71% agree that health insurance should cover the cost of addiction treatment.
- 77% agree that addiction treatment should be part of health care reform.
- 78% understand that drug addiction is a chronic disease rather than a personal failing.
- 83% said that first-time drug offenders should be sent to addiction-treatment programs, not prison.
- 77% agree that many addicts who complete treatment go on to lead useful lives
This document is available at www.hazelden.org/web/public/pr090209healthinsurance.page.
