Improving PTSD/substance abuse treatment in the VA: a survey of providers.
We surveyed 205 Veterans Affairs (VA) staff on treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (SUD), and the combination (PTSD/SUD). The survey was anonymous and VA-wide. PTSD/SUD was perceived as more difficult to treat than either disorder alone; gratification in the work was stronger than difficulty (for PTSD, SUD, and PTSD/SUD); and difficulty and gratification appeared separate constructs. Respondents endorsed views that represent expert treatment for the comorbidity; however, there was also endorsement of "myths." Thus, there is a need for more training, policy clarifications, service integration, and adaptations for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Limitations are described.
VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Lisa.Najavits@va.gov
Lisa M
LM
Najavits
Sonya B
SB
Norman
Daniel
D
Kivlahan
Thomas R
TR
Kosten
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003625:Data Collection; D017831:Diagnosis, Dual (Psychiatry); D006801:Humans; D011787:Quality of Health Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D014481:United States; D014493:United States Department of Veterans Affairs