Relationship between waiting time and retention in treatment amongst substance abusers

The assumption that immediate response to substance abusers' pleas for help increases the likelihood of retention in treatment is tested in a substance abuse facility in the Home Counties which offers a range of treatment options excluding prescription of narcotics substitutes. It has shorter waiting times between referral and first appointments and higher rates of initial attendance than the local general psychiatric clinics. Patients seen within 7 days continue to attend for no longer than those who have to wait longer. Those who continue longer are more likely to be referred by their G.P., are more likely to have alcohol or alcohol and other drug related problems and are less likely to seek or need immediate inpatient admission.