Of great concern for both ASAM and WSAM is the improvement of access to, and continuity of, appropriate, effective medical care for addictive disorders. This calls for involvement in the political process at state and national levels as well as education and establishing guidelines and criteria for care based upon sound practices which incorporate basic and clinical research. ASAM's Patient Placement Criteria for the Treatment of Psychoactive Substance Use Disorders, published in 1991, is a comprehensive, pioneering resource, helpful in addressing these issues.