Narcotics research, rehabilitation, and treatment. Hearings, Ninety ...

:251—pliysicians who are familiar with methadone patients and who are available forback-up in program.INTAKE OF PATIENTSA central intake of patients for all the clinics and h-^spitals associated withthis program has been established under the direction of a skilled staff. Thisstaff has had experience working with addicts, and their backgrounds are essentiallyin social service. They screen the applicants for acceptability in the program.A research assistant (an addict in the program who has proven himself) isof great assistance in this procedure.Originally, because this was an experimental program, very rigid qualificationsfor admission were established. These subsequent qualifications and their modificationsare1. Af7e.—Originally, age was set at 21 to 39 years. The patient had to be ableto sign a consent form but could not be over 39 because of the theory that drugaddiction decreases with age. The age requirement has now been changed ro 18years with proper consent. No maximum age limit now exists. We even treatpatients collecting Social Security, and those registered with medicare.2. Residence.—^New York City residency is required because of reimbursementaspects.3. Addiction.—Only opiate addicts are accepted. Severe barbiturate an