Contingency Management: A Fresh Look at Stimulant Use Treatment
Episode Overview
Contingency management is highly effective for stimulant use disorder Challenges exist in implementing contingency management at scale Attitudes towards contingency management have evolved over time Policy changes and funding adjustments are needed to enhance access Research focus is shifting towards harm reduction-oriented practices
Contingency management is the most effective treatment for stimulant use disorder, especially given the lack of other evidence-based treatments.
Ever wondered how contingency management could reshape addiction treatment? In this episode of 'Addiction Audio', Ben Scher chats with Dr. Gabriela Khazanov, Professor James McKay, and Professor Richard Rawson about the ins and outs of this approach. They break down what contingency management is and why it's particularly promising for stimulant use disorders, an area often lacking effective treatments.
The conversation digs into the nuts and bolts of implementing this method in the US, tackling ethical concerns and the practical hurdles practitioners face. The trio also reflects on how attitudes towards contingency management have evolved over the past decade. The discussion is rooted in a paper published in 'Addiction', which explores ways to improve the dissemination and implementation of this treatment.
They touch on why patients are sometimes barred from re-engaging with contingency management if they drop out and how this contrasts with other treatment types. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative approaches to addiction treatment and the ongoing quest to make these methods more accessible.