TREATMENT SERVICES AVAILABLE FOR ADDICTS IN RECOVERY

This letter is in response to the Feb. 17 article ("OPD street unit
tackles city vice") that quoted Sgt. David Thompson lamenting the
lack of treatment services in Owensboro for addiction. OMHS Addiction
Services has been open since November 1997. We have eight inpatient
beds for individuals who require detox, and provide day treatment,
intensive outpatient, and individual outpatient services. Since our
opening we have never had to turn any detox patients away due to lack
of space. We have had up to 22 patients at once in the day treatment
program. During our last state survey it was noted that we had the
largest aftercare in Kentucky. Although some have reservations
regarding the day treatment model and believe that an out-of-town
residential program is best, both the literature and our experience
tell us that day treatment is effective because patients can use
treatment recommendations in real life settings with their family,
friends, and employers. Patients and their families experience less
disruption in their lives. Many can continue to work while attending
treatment. We have very strong support in the local 12-step community
and rely on our volunteers to demonstrate the serenity that comes
from living by 12-step principles.

We are heartened by the latest developments both with the OPD Street
Crimes Unit and the more recent drug court. Many addicted individuals
do not realize their problem until they receive a consequence as
momentous as an arrest. We hope the OPD Street Crimes Unit continues
with its vital work, and want to be part of the recovery process for
anyone affected by addiction.

Tina Wedding L.C.S.W., C.A.D.C.

Owensboro Mercy Health System Addiction Services