ASAP & SUDCC

ASAP vs. SUDCC

• The Army divides substance abuse resources into two distinct programs:
• ASAP (Army Substance Abuse Program): Focuses on prevention, education, and drug testing (urinalysis) at the installation level.
• SUDCC (Substance Use Disorder Clinical Care): Focuses on the actual clinical evaluation, treatment, and counseling. It falls under Army Medicine.

Types of Referral

• Soldiers are referred to SUDCC through several channels:
• Self-referral: A Soldier voluntarily seeks help BEFORE being identified through other means. Self-referrals are protected under the Limited Use Policy and generally cannot be used against the Soldier for adverse action under the UCMJ.
• Command referral: The commander directs a Soldier to evaluation based on observed behavior, a positive drug test, or alcohol-related incident.
• Medical referral: A healthcare provider identifies a substance abuse issue during routine care.
• Investigation/Apprehension referral: Identified through law enforcement action (e.g., DUI).

Drug Testing (ASAP)

• The Army conducts urinalysis testing under several categories:
• Random (unit sweep): Command-directed, random selection
• Probable cause: Based on reasonable suspicion of drug use
• Commander's directed: Based on command's authority to ensure unit readiness (cannot be used for UCMJ if it doesn't meet probable cause)
• Consent: Soldier voluntarily agrees to be tested
• Medical: As part of a medical evaluation or treatment
• Rehabilitation: For Soldiers currently enrolled in SUDCC

Board Tips

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ASAP AND SUDCC. Boards love to ask: 'Where do you send a Soldier for alcohol treatment?' The answer is SUDCC, not ASAP. ASAP is for the urinalysis and prevention training. Also, know the types of referrals, especially the protections for self-referral (Limited Use Policy). A common situational question: 'A Soldier tells you they have a drinking problem — what do you do?' Answer: Commend them for coming forward, explain the protections of a self-referral, and personally escort them to SUDCC for an evaluation.