Feasibility and Usability of an Open-Group Program for Alcohol Use Disorder.

INTRODUCTION

Although an open-group model is often used in substance use treatment, there are no evidence-based open-group treatment protocols. A large federal substance treatment agency (the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program within the Department of the Air Force) requested an evidence-informed open-group treatment protocol to treat alcohol misuse to implement throughout their clinics.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The research team: (a) compiled and reviewed manuals for empirically supported closed groups, general literature, and best practices; (b) developed an overarching and unifying framework; (c) drafted preliminary pilot materials; (d) implemented and refined groups with providers via ongoing feedback; and (e) evaluated feasibility and usability of, and participant engagement in, the program. Providers gave detailed weekly feedback in meetings on program content and process.

RESULTS

The feedback was positive in both phases. With the addition of new installations, program content and delivery continued to be perceived as useful in meeting patient and provider needs.

CONCLUSIONS

Effective delivery of an evidence-based open-group treatment can be achieved with basic training of providers in the protocol.