[Status of the management of addicted patients--results of an expert survey as the basis for health policy decisions].

457 (39%) of 1172 experts filled in a questionnaire on the need of public health care for addicted persons in a defined region. About 80% of the experts reported a need of care above average for alcoholics, only 63% for illicit drug consumers. Prevention and public relations work is according to 70% of the experts a matter of prime importance. More than 70% of the experts see a special need of care for addicted persons who have been unemployed for a long time or already at a young age. An additional need for care also exists for long-term care methods and on-location work by social workers. About 68% of the experts emphasize the need for additional care for addicted persons with psychiatric disorders. The differences between the investigated regions are discussed.