Available research into the effects of comorbidity indicates that the most effective programs are those which are developed locally, and involve input from those affected as well as their carers.

The Chief Executive Officer for the Alcohol and other Drugs Council of Australia (ADCA), David Templeman says comorbidity is a significant health issue in Australia, which requires support at all levels.

"There is a widely held view in Australia among frontline workers, other service providers and advocate organisations, within the alcohol and other drugs (AOD) sector that comorbidity is a significant problem which is not managed well. That's why ADCA has chosen Carers Week to launch its policy position on this issue," Mr Templeman said.

ADCA believes there is a clear need for a national approach to the problem, given the evidence of unmet needs, and the inconsistent approaches which operate in different jurisdictions throughout Australia.

"In order to appropriately address this health issue, ADCA believes initiatives which promote close cooperation between mental health and AOD sectors should be given the highest priority. In addition, support and training of general practitioners and other frontline practitioners must also be considered to ensure this issue is dealt with sufficiently."

ADCA recommends that Governments and non-government organisations (NGO) aim to integrate mental health and AOD services as a high priority, and that the Government re-focus their health and related budgets on primary health and community care, rather than on tertiary services which have minimal impact on the outcomes in comorbidity disorders and related conditions.

"More assistance is needed if the standard of care for people with comorbidity disorders is to match that of more 'acceptable' conditions such as diabetes, cancer or mental illnesses in their own right," Mr Templeman added.

For a full copy of ADCA's policy position or a fact sheet on comorbidity please visit our website www.adca.org.au