Managing Drug and Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Services
Overview
Harmful drug and alcohol use is a major social issue with an estimated annual cost to the community of $14 billion. Around 77 000 Victorians are hospitalised for alcohol and drug related conditions each year and 27 000 enter government-funded specialist alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment programs.
The current community-based alcohol and drug program has operated since 1997. The state allocated $135.7 million for AOD prevention and treatment activities in 2010–11, with 81 per cent of program funding allocated to treatment.
The audit found that the Department of Health has no assurance that the service system objectives, of effective case management and continuity of care for clients, and consistent, high quality services, are being achieved.
Despite thirty-one reviews of various service system components since 1999, refinement of the treatment system has been at the margins. A real commitment to implement long overdue reforms is required.