What accessibility issue is demonstrated by Tom needing to take a leave to attend outpatient alcohol treatment?

The need for Tom to take a leave to attend outpatient alcohol treatment highlights a scheduling issue. When an individual must manage work commitments alongside treatment sessions, it can create significant challenges in balancing both responsibilities. This situation underscores the potential conflicts that arise from needing to attend treatment during regular business hours or when other obligations are present, effectively demonstrating how scheduling can impede access to necessary services.

Addressing scheduling is critical in making treatment more accessible for individuals. When treatment times are not flexible or align poorly with a person's work or personal commitments, it may discourage them from seeking or continuing care. In Tom's case, taking a leave suggests that the available scheduling options for his treatment did not accommodate his existing commitments, necessitating a difficult choice between work and recovery.

This highlights the importance of developing treatment programs that offer flexible scheduling options to better support individuals seeking help while managing their other responsibilities.