The DDCAT and DDCMHT indexes
The Dual Diagnosis Capability in Addiction Treatment (DDCAT) Index is used to assess public and private sector addiction treatment services at agency, regional and state system levels.
The Dual Diagnosis Capability in Mental Health Treatment (DDCMHT) is an adaptation of the DDCAT for application in mental health settings.
The DDCAT/DDCMHT method is based on observational, interview and material review data gathered during a site visit. These data are then used to complete ratings on 35 benchmarks regarding policy, clinical practice and workforce domains.
(The Hazelden Co-occurring Disorders Program is based on the findings, observations, and studies of more than 200 addiction treatment programs using the DDCAT.)
Seven dimensions
There are seven dimensional or scale scores derived on the measure:
1. Program Structure
2. Program Milieu
3. Clinical Practice: Assessment
4. Clinical Practice: Treatment
5. Continuity of Care
6. Staffing
7. Training
See: Indexes measure program across seven dimensions
Scoring
Programs receive scores and a graphic profile based on these dimensions. Based on overall performance, each is categorized as:
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Addiction Only Services (AOS)
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Mental Health Only Services (MHOS)
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Dual Diagnosis Capable (DDC)
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Dual Diagnosis Enhanced (DDE)
See: What does my DDCAT/DDCMHT score mean?
The index was developed and tested in community addiction treatment programs and systems. Psychometric studies have also been conducted.
Applications of the DDCAT are in progress in at least 20 state systems and internationally, and the index is also being used to assess private treatment programs and systems.
