Our understanding of addiction has advanced enormously over the last few decades, yet the general structure of the treatment model with which we approach the disease has remained essentially unchanged since the ‘70s. What should treatment look like in the 21st century? Where is it working, and where is it falling short? What populations are well-served by it, and which are not? How does treatment have to change to address the full spectrum of addictive disorders recognized today?

In an effort to shed light on these issues, Dr. Paul Earley, M.D. presented a symposium at the SECAD conference this week entitled, "Reengineering Treatment to Manage Chronic Addiction in the New Century." Of his presentation, Dr. Earley warned that it "may seem uncomfortable to those of us that have been raised in traditional treatment metaphors." He went on to examine the state of treatment today, and envisioned where it may need to go - and why it needs to go there - in the 21st century.

Dennis Miller from BHC Journal interviewed Dr. Earley on the 10th of February 2009. The content of the interview arose from one of Dr. Earley's two talks at the 2009 SECAD Conference. This brief audio interview describes how we have to rethink or care model -- what changes are imperative for effective long term care of this chronic disease.

Click on the play button on the player to listen to the interview.

You may also want review more information about the interview by going to the BHC Journal web site.If you cannot see a audio file player above, click here for more information.