The Program Evaluation and Resource Center (PERC) conducts system-wide monitoring and evaluation of substance abuse treatment services in the Department of Veterans Affairs. PERC is organized under the auspices of the Mental Health Strategic Health Group (MHSHG) in VA Central Office and is physically located in the VA Health Care System in Palo Alto, California.
PERC's major areas of focus are: (1) system-wide monitoring of VA patients who have substance use disorders; (2) substance abuse treatment outcome evaluation;(3) substance abuse patients with co-morbid disorders;(4) self- and mutual-help programs, and (5) evaluation of VA and other federal policies regarding substance abuse treatment.
Overall, PERC's projects describe the changing patterns of VA treatment options and outcomes, assess demand for treatment, and identify the best forms of substance abuse intervention available. Our mission is to promote more effective and cost-effective health care for veterans with substance abuse disorders by finding out what aspects of treatment work, and by informing policymakers about how to improve the treatment system.
