Treatment outcome as a function of treatment attendance with homeless persons abusing cocaine

Author(s): Milby, J. B., Caldwell, E., Raczynski, J., Engle, M., Michael, M., Carr, J.

Journal/Book: J Addict Dis. 1995; 14: 10 Alice St, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580. Haworth Press Inc. 73-85.

Abstract: This research examines the influence of treatment attendance at two substance abuse outpatient treatment programs of the Birmingham Substance Abuse Homeless Project on substance abuse, homelessness, and unemployment outcomes with homeless persons abusing primarily crack cocaine. Results revealed that significant reductions across a one year period in alcohol use, cocaine use, and homelessness were more likely to occur in clients who attended an average of 4.1 treatment days per week (High attendance or Enhanced Care group) than clients who attended less than one day a week on the average (Low attendance or Usual Care and Medium attendance groups). These results are consistent with the literature suggesting that more intensive contact early in treatment results in better long-term outcome with cocaine abusers, but has now been demonstrated with homeless cocaine abusers who have additional problems associated with housing and employment.

Note: Article JE Schumacher, Univ Alabama, Sch Med, Div Prevent Med, Behav Med Unit, 1717 11TH Ave S, 401 Med Towers, Birmingham, AL 35205 USA

Keyword(s): DRUG-ABUSE; ABSTINENCE; ADDICTS

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