Homeless People Seeking Substance Abuse Treatment Denied For Lack Of Identification.

The AP (8/4, Izaguirre) reports many homeless people who are addicted to illicit substances are denied treatment for lack of valid photo identification. According to 2016 data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, less than one of every 10 of the US’ “substance abuse treatment facilities offer certified opioid treatment programs.”

A SAMHSA spokesman said ID requirements are aimed at preventing people from enrolling in multiple programs and selling opioid medications, although one expert said some facilities deny applicants who present alternate forms of identification, despite the fact that such documents are in fact acceptable.

Related Links:

— “For homeless on heroin, treatment can be elusive with no ID,” ANTHONY IZAGUIRRE, Associated Press via Washington Times, August 4, 2017.

Posted in In The News.