A study on the socio-psychiatric aspects of short-term ARP (Alcohol Rehabilitation Program).

The duration of the majority of Alcohol Rehabilitation Programs (ARP) at major hospitals specializing in this treatment is three months. Recently, however, because of diverse backgrounds and patients needs, long periods of hospitalization have become difficult. In response to this, Okamotodai Hospital initiated a one-month ARP program three years ago. One feature of this program is that it can be freely structured to meet the requirements of individual patients. This study compares the prognosis of patients treated under this one-month program with that of those who have undergone the three-month program. A group of 56 patients who had completed a one-month ARP program during a period of two to three years was compared with a group of 46 patients who had completed a three-month program over a similar period. The backgrounds of the subjects were researched by questionnaire. A comparison of the prognosis of patients in the respective programs showed there was no statistical difference, with a recovery rate of 45% for both programs. Results of this study statistical difference, with a recovery rate of 45% for both programs. Results of this study cannot be generalized, due to the lack of subjects and recovery of questionnaires. Since enforcement of the one-month ARP, increasing number of patients have been using the program. This fact doesn't necessarily show that the use of ARP improve, although the possibility remains that utilization of the one-month ARP is promoted. In recent years, utilization of brief intervention has been demonstrated and recovery from alcoholism in the outpatient clinics reported. Considering such things, results of the study show that the one-month ARP is a valid and effective program.