Portugal's Health-Based Approach to Addiction vs. U.S. Drug War Model

SOURCE npr.org
Dr. João Goulão of Portugal shifted addiction response to health care, reducing overdose deaths drastically. Portugal's decriminalization and health-based approach led to a significant drop in drug deaths, HIV/AIDS cases, and hepatitis. Police in Portugal refer drug users to counseling instead of arresting them, contributing to lower stigma and increased treatment participation.

Key Points

  • Dr. João Goulão shifted Portugal's addiction response to health care, leading to a drastic drop in overdose deaths.
  • Portugal's decriminalization and health-based approach significantly reduced drug deaths, HIV/AIDS cases, and hepatitis.
  • Police in Portugal refer drug users to counseling instead of arresting them, contributing to lower stigma and increased treatment participation.

Pros

  • Significant reduction in drug deaths, HIV/AIDS cases, and hepatitis in Portugal
  • Decriminalization and health care focus led to improved outcomes for people with addiction
  • Police referral to counseling in Portugal instead of arrest reduced stigma and increased treatment participation

Cons

  • Challenges in implementing similar policies in the U.S.
  • Political and societal differences make adoption of Portuguese model complex in the U.S.