Systemic Barriers to Addict Aftercare Program Implementation

An examination of how the interaction of a variety of systemic forces within the drug treatment services delivery system resulted in systemic barriers to the implementation of a free standing, aftercare demonstration project for former heroin users. There is a discussion of how the lack of a coherent, systems-wide clinical master plan, combined with erratic and competitive program funding policies, resulted in a general misunderstanding of, and resistance to aftercare program implementation. Specific strategies employed by the project to either adapt or to overcome these barriers are also discussed. Systems-level policy recommendations are suggested, highlighted by the need for a unifying organizational model for drug treatment services that establishes working relationships between all drug treatment and related social services, emphasizing cooperation and collaboration.