Position statement on training needs in addiction psychiatry

Psychiatry has only recently developed training in the area of substance-related disorders. Nevertheless, these illnesses are highly prevalent and are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Patients with these disorders often do not encounter or have access to effective treatment. Because of this, the American Psychiatric Association recommends developing improved training to assure that 1) the basic psychiatric residency addresses essential aspects of addiction prevention and treatment, 2) addiction psychiatry fellowships are strengthened to provide needed manpower for consultation, academic teaching, and research, and 3) psychiatrists are trained to provide leadership for the multidisciplinary teams characteristic of this field. This statement was drafted by the Committee on Training and Education in Addiction Psychiatry. It was approved by the APA Assembly in November 1995 and by the Board of Trustees in December 1995.