THE CHALLENGE OF DUAL DIAGNOSIS

Researchers have made great strides in understanding and treating alco holics with co-occurring psychiatric disorders, improved diagnostic cr iteria are available, and research has demonstrated that both disorder s must be addressed if the dually diagnosed patient is to have the bes t chance for a good outcome, The best type of treatment program is an integrated approach, assuring that treatments will be coordinated for best effect Additional research is needed to match optimum treatment a pproaches with cost-effective reimbursement practices.