Drug Treatment Choice Program

As authorized by the District of Columbia's Choice in Drug Treatment Act of 2000, the Drug Treatment Choice Program allows clients in Washington, D.C., to determine the treatment program that best suits their needs. The Addiction Prevention and Recovery Administration (APRA) under the District of Columbia's Department of Health administers the program, which was implemented in October 2002. The program is funded entirely by local dollars with a budget of $7.5 million, with $2 million set aside to treat youth. Deciding how to implement the program was initially challenging, because no large-scale models of similar programs existed. APRA held forums to inform treatment providers about the program and to offer technical assistance to providers interested in participating in the program. To participate, treatment providers must be certified. The certification process includes meeting minimal clinical standards and demonstrating financial viability. Under this program, an individual who is seeking treatment is first assessed to determine the level of addiction and is then provided with a list of providers appropriate for that individual's needed level of care.

It is the mission of the Addiction Prevention and Recovery Administration (APRA) to promote and enforce the highest quality regulatory standards for delivering services related to alcohol, tobacco and other drugs (ATOD) addictions; to prevent ATOD addictions; and to identify, treat and rehabilitate persons who are addicted giving priority to residents of the District of Columbia.

Currently, 20 treatment providers have been certified to participate in the program. Individuals with no children can receive up to $10,000 per year for treatment services and those with children can receive up to $25,000 per year.