Characteristics of drug abuse patients at a Veterans Administration Hospital

A total of 308 patients were treated at the Wood VAC Drug Treatment Center during its first 2 years of operation (November 1, 1971-October 318 1973). They completed confidential questionnaires upon admission. Personal information and data concerning drug usage were obtained. Significant findings include the following: 1. A wide variety of opiate and nonopiate drugs were available in the military. 2. Although most patients had experienced illicit drugs prior to service, over 60% tried heroin for the first time while in the military; 83% of these men were subsequently treated for opiate dependence. 3. High rates of unemployment, marital instability, and convictions for illegal activities were revealed. A significant proportion of first convictions occurred prior to major drug usage. Data suggest that a flexible and multimodal approach to drug abuse therapy may have the best potential for success. Problems in evaluating and coordinating drug treatment programs are discussed briefly.