The experimental program was implemented in Fairbanks, Alaska, last year. A group of clergy, politicians, police, business, and medical officials devised the program to address the growing problem of chronic alcoholism.

The group first focused on 50 people who were identified as "frequent fliers" because they routinely showed up at the hospital or in jail following alcohol-related incidents. The group worked to enroll these people in alcohol-treatment programs -- sometimes by going to court to force individuals to get help.

"We've decreased our emergency-department costs by 42 percent in one year," said Carole Devilla, program coordinator. "So instead of putting people in jail or running them through the ER, which is much more expensive, we are using the cheaper, much more effective alternative."

She added, "We have also cut 30 percent in related healthcare costs at our Indian Health Service. This is just in one year for 50 people."

While most participants have had some sober periods during the year following treatment, Devilla said several have remained sober after a full year.

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