An evaluation of alcoholism treatment services for Alaskan natives

Using chart-review procedures, the authors examined the management of patients with a recognized alcohol problem in 12 medical facilities and 20 alcoholism programs throughout Alaska. The evaluation, which covered a one-year period, focused on the service delivery system rather than on treatment outcome, and sought to determine if problems of alcohol abuse were being solved. The authors found that a treatment plan was developed, followed up, and evaluated for 8 per cent of the problem drinkers treated in medical facilities and for 16.7 per cent of those in alcohol programs.