Retention of patients in the New York City methadone maintenance treatment program

The retention, termination, and readmission of patients admitted to the New York City Methadone Maintenance Program from November 1970 through the end of 1973 were analyzed. Sixty-seven percent of patients remained in continuous treatment for 1 year and 50% for 2 years. The retention of patients admitted in successive years declined. Women had somewhat higher retention than men, as did patients over age 30 compared with those 30 or under; there were no differences among ethnic groups. Termination rates were determined for specific reasons for termination from the program as a function of length of time in treatment and also for calendar trimesters. A sharp increase in the rate of voluntary terminations was noted during the second and third trimesters of 1973. Rates of readmission to the program were obtained, specific for reason for first termination and length of time in initial treatment. One out of five terminated patients was readmitted to the program within 24 months.