Combined Outpatient Alcoholism Therapy and Occupational Rehabilitation on Welfare Recipients - Results of a Pilot Study

Abstract

This study tested the feasibility of outpatient abstinence treatment among alcohol dependant subjects on welfare. Patients had a long history of alcohol dependence and prolonged unemployment. Over a period of six months atotal of 250 patients were approached by the social welfare office and asked to participate in the program. The program involved detoxification and a three month combined alcohol treatment and personal job training. Of the 250 persons approached 96 patients (about 40%) appeared for the initial examination, 19 patients (13%) finished detoxification and a total of 5 patients completed the program. The majority of a group of patients considered to be highly therapy resistant did not complete the program. Still it was important to demonstrate that a subgroup of patients did successfully complete this program. We consider this pilot project a successful starting point for further development of treatment approaches targeted more specifically at this group of patients.