A DRUG and alcohol rehabilitation program that sees addicts treated within the community could be piloted in Tamworth.
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Rather than deal with addiction behind closed doors at a residential rehab, the Matrix Model is a structured intensive community-based program that treats people with addiction in the 'real world'.
The program continues to be a hot topic among Tamworth councillors who have discussed the potential that it has to break a cycle of addiction in the city.
It has been trialled in a number of South Australian areas with impressive results, Cr Phil Betts said.
"If you look at the website the achievements they have are quite phenomenal and as we know the drug issue across our nation is alarming," he said.
"The success rate for getting people off the drugs is anywhere from 50 to 82 per cent.
"It's not a rehabilitation program as in a residential structure, it's a whole-of-community approach and it has tremendous success."
The SA Riverland trial showed an 82 per cent remission rate for those who finished the 16-week program, while other clinics averaged between 55 and 70 per cent.
It's a staggering success rate when compared to the 20 to 30 per cent of addicts who get clean in traditional residential rehabilitation programs.
The Matrix Model combines cognitive behavioural therapy with weekly drug testing and evidence-based strategies.
Participants are taught about addiction, how to avoid relapses and how to socialise in drug-free environments.
At the end, the patients are given real-world coping skills they can use to remain in remission.
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The program doesn't come cheap, as the Tamworth Crime Prevention Working Group noted in a report to Tamworth Regional Council, but "should be strongly supported".
Cr Betts agreed, especially given the drug issues the community faces.
"I think we as a council need to support a trial or further investigation into a trial because if the reports indicate what they have by Dr Quentin Black and the Adelaide experience we certainly need to embark on it," he said.
The report was noted by councillors, but not a formal motion, meaning it will now face further discussion if it is to be taken forward.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
