[The "qualified outpatient detoxification" model project]

In 1998, a model project of outpatient detoxification in alcoholics was initiated in a German outpatient clinic. Inclusion and exclusion criteria of this project, which is supported by local health care providers, are presented. Between August 1998 and June 2000, 205 patients were screened. Psychotherapeutically motivating elements are integrated, so that this may be termed a "qualified" detoxification program. One hundred forty-one patients entered the program, of whom 127 (90%) successfully finished treatment. No serious medical complications were observed. Of those who completed treatment, 121 entered further alcoholic rehabilitation programs. Some preliminary data of an ongoing catamnestic study suggest that, after a mean of 10 months post-detoxification, 61 (50%) of these patients are still abstinent and in rehabilitation programs. The findings suggest that outpatient alcohol detoxification is safe and efficient, at least for a subgroup of patients, and also indicate the possible efficacy of concomitant psychotherapeutic interventions during this mode of treatment.