Why we stopped using the term 'aftercare'

Area of Science:

• Addiction treatment
• Health services research
• Public health policy

Background:

• The language used in alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment shapes understanding and funding.
• Current AOD service provision often uses the term 'aftercare' for post-residential support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critique the term 'aftercare' in the AOD field.
• To advocate for terminology that better reflects the need for ongoing, integrated care in AOD management.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of terminology in AOD treatment.
• Argumentative commentary on the implications of language in AOD service provision.

Main Results:

• The term 'aftercare' implies care is secondary and acute, not integral to a continuum.
• 'Aftercare' may discourage government funding for essential ongoing AOD services.
• Existing terminology fails to capture the continuous, coordinated support required for sustained AOD recovery.

Conclusions:

• 'Aftercare' inaccurately represents the nature of necessary ongoing support for individuals managing AOD use.
• Alternative terms, such as 'continuing coordinated care,' better articulate the integrated and sustained services needed.
• Shifting terminology is crucial for appropriate AOD service design, implementation, and funding.