Levels of Care and Stimulant Use Disorder Treatment

Source: Mee-Lee D, Shulman GD, Fishman MJ, Gastfriend DR, Miller MM, eds. The ASAM Criteria: Treatment Criteria for Addictive, Substance-Related, and Co-Occurring Conditions. 3rd ed. Carson City, NV: The Change Companies®; 2013.

Overview: Chapter 3 describes the medical and mental health factors to consider to ensure the safe admission of patients into care settings. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Criteria establishes comprehensive guidelines to ensure that patients with SUDs enter treatment at the appropriate level of care, remain in care for the necessary duration, and are transferred to another level of care when they are ready. ASAM Criteria assesses six dimensions for individuals:

1. Acute intoxication and/or withdrawal potential
2. Biomedical conditions and complications
3. Emotional, behavioral, or cognitive conditions and complications
4. Readiness to change
5. Recurrent or continued use or continued risk potential
6. Recovery and living environment

Clinicians can use ASAM Criteria to prioritize patients' treatment needs and to identify the areas where patients are most likely to have a successful response to treatment (SAMHSA, 2021c). Clinicians can also reference state-specific placement criteria that satisfy requirements outlined in state statutes for SUD admissions (if available).