Better definition of vocational services is critical within substance user treatment programs

Vocational rehabilitation in substance user treatment programs is often poorly defined; programs rarely provide adequate descriptions of the vocational services they offer. There is no standardization in the content of vocational counseling, in the format of its delivery, or in the qualifications of staff that deliver it. Thus, the type, intensity, and quality of vocational services can vary widely among programs, as well as over time within a given program due to vocational staff turnover. However, current demands for greater accountability in social services pose a challenge to this state of affairs. There is no evidence that vocational services as currently delivered in treatment programs are either effective or even reasonably efficient. Note that "programs are increasingly called on to justify their existence, their expenditure of funds and their achievement of objectives. Behind the call for accountability is an awareness of the gap between almost unlimited social need and limited resources" (Weiss, 2004). It is difficult to achieve accountability for ill-defined and variable vocational services.