Alcohol treatment outcomes following discharge from a partial hospital program

Thousands of individuals in the United States seek alcohol treatment each year, typically in outpatient settings. Partial hospital programs provide a high level of structured, individualized outpatient care for individuals who are in treatment for alcohol use disorder. Previous research in other outpatient and inpatient settings has found that psychological distress, pain, and aftercare utilization are associated with treatment outcomes.

The current study evaluates baseline characteristics and aftercare utilization predictors of alcohol use outcomes of individuals in a week-long partial hospital program.

The 113 participants (59.3% male) were interviewed during their time in the program and then were reassessed one month post-discharge.

Results indicated that a greater number of mental health provider visits and 12-step attendance were associated with abstinence at follow-up such, while baseline characteristics did not consistently predict outcomes.

Findings highlight the importance of aftercare planning, particularly in our more severe, clinical sample.