[Attitudes, knowledge and methods of assistance used by general practitioners in Novara in treating drug addicts. Study of 100 doctors].

The study examines the relationship between the general practitioner and the drug addict and aims to evaluate some aspects of the work of the health service, above all with reference to the methods of assistance, attitudes and knowledge relating to the problem of treating drug addicts. A questionnaire was sent to 100 general practitioners in Novara; it consisted of 15 questions relation to the doctor's opinion of the drug addict, the methods and place of intervention, the doctor's judgement regarding his/her own preparation and function, and the frequency of contact with drug addicts. The findings show that the majority of doctors have a positive attitude towards the problem, but that there is also a widespread feeling of impotency, dislike, loneliness, disinformation, and in addiction a feeling of educational inadequacy on the subject.