Pubdate: Sat, 22 Mar 2003
Source: Union-News (MA)
Copyright: 2003 Union-News
Contact:  http://www.masslive.com/unionnews/index.ssf
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/860
Author: Paul Lafrenaye

STATE'S METHADONE CLINICS ARE DUE FOR SOME SCRUTINY

I feel Gov. W. Mitt Romney should investigate the state-run methadone 
clinics for a way to save money.

These programs do not work, because the people end up on a lifetime 
maintenance program instead of getting detoxed.

The state pays some of these people 30-something dollars apiece every month 
just to get to the clinic, and then gives them their methadone cocktail 
every day, which must cost the state quite a bit.

I feel the state should limit the time for a person to detox to 30 or 60 
days, after which the person should be liable for the cost.

If the person needs lifetime maintenance, he or she should pay for it. Take 
the money from their welfare benefits or withhold their state tax refund.

Give these people a reason to detox and get on with their lives, and in the 
process save the state millions.

PAUL LAFRENAYE

Chicopee
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MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens