ASAM Adopts Public Policy Statement on Ethical Promotion and Patient Recruitment by Addiction Treatment Programs

The Board of Directors of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) has approved a new policy statement: Public Policy Statement on Ethical Promotion and Patient Recruitment by Addiction Treatment Programs.  This Policy Statement includes recommendations on standards related to the marketing of addiction treatment services and recruiting of patients as well as state and federal government development and dissemination of materials for consumers to detect potential fraudulent marketing and patient recruiting practices. 

 

As addiction treatment has evolved, different models of treatment have been created. The evolution of treatment models has not guaranteed access to evidence-based care. Insurance coverage has expanded, and more people can now find treatment in many different forms and settings.  Entrepreneurs have entered the field and profit-driven treatment models are becoming more common.  ASAM recognizes that individuals with addiction as well as their families and others who assist them to access treatment are vulnerable and at high risk for exploitation, particularly at times of crisis when treatment is sought.  As such, treatment programs should be held to the highest standard of ethical practice in the marketing of their services and recruitment of patients.