It was discovered that there were separate as well as overlapping benefits in using medication and psychosocial approaches to treat alcoholics. For instance, by using medication longer periods of abstinence occur. This in turn allows health practitioners to enhance individual and social coping skills for their patients so that they will be motivated to change. Overall, it is believed that incorporating alcohol treatment into the health care system would be beneficial in a variety of ways. (1) “Destigmatize” alcoholism as an illness. (2) Increase accessibility and use of treatment services. (3) Reduce disparities in insurance coverage for alcohol related diseases and other health related problems. 1 figure, 2 tables, and references