Factors associated with patient dropout from an outpatient alcoholism treatment service

Treatment dropout was studied in 172 patients (40 women) of an outpatient alcoholism treatment program. The best predictors of dropout were the length of delay between appointments, and variables related to symptom levels such as the number of prior alcohol-related arrests, the use of illicit drugs and scores on the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test. Of lesser importance, but in line with previous findings, were sociodemographic variables such as age, the level of social stability and the presence of dependents at home. No personality variables were found to be relevant. It is suggested that treatment programs can improve attendance by reducing the delay with which services are offered and by changing certain characteristics of treatment personnel.