THE PERCEPTIONS OF PROGRAM DIRECTORS AND CLIENTS REGARDING THE EFFICACY OF METHADONE TREATMENT

A statewide sample of regional coordinators, program directors, and clients associated with opiate addiction treatment programs revealed their biases and expectations regarding the efficacy of methadone as a form of treatment. Methadone and drug-free program directors held consistent beliefs about treatment except the efficacy of methadone. Prior methadone clients currently in drug-free programs were skeptical of the methadone treatment, unlike clients currently in methadone treatment. The data reveal differences of opinions across the levels of the treatment system represented in the survey. In policy decisions, the need to consider empirical evidence in addition to personal opinions is emphasized, if consensus is ever to be realized. The controversies surrounding the treatment of opiate addiction complicates decision-making with respect to treatment and policy guidelines. In anticipation of future treatment needs, program directors and clients involved in opiate treatment were asked to complete a brief survey. The purpose of the survey was to examine the consistency of beliefs regarding the viability of methadone treatment from the perspective of both the consumers and providers of treatment. This ''market-segmentation'' approach provides a clearer understanding of the issues and biases salient to policy decisions regarding methadone treatment programs.