Google will resume accepting ads from addiction treatment centers following rampant abuse

Google plans to resume ad acceptance of alcohol and drug addiction treatment centers after a long period of review, Reuters reports. Google originally removed rehab-related search terms on its AdWords platform last September, following an investigation by The Verge that details how deceptive ads from disreputable treatment centers were using algorithms from Google to increase the number of patients admitted.

Google says that now the ads will be examined directly by LegitScript, based in Portland, Oregon, which oversees the online pharmacies of the National Association of Pharmacy Boards to prevent abuse and unauthorized sale of prescription drugs. According to Reuters the new rules apply to in-person rehabilitation facilities, crisis hotlines and support groups. The rules also reflect what Google has implemented for services such as locksmiths and other in-person repairs that could lead to theft or theft.

As part of LegitScript's evaluation, treatment centers must meet 15 criteria ranging from criminal background check to insurance verification, as well as "written policies and procedures that demonstrate a commitment to best practices, effective recovery and improvement." keep going". LegitScript plans to charge $ 995 for an initial verification and then almost $ 2,000 each year to update the verification, Reuters reports.

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