Peer support during inpatient detoxification and aftercare outcomes

OBJECTIVE: Although the immediate goal of inpatient detoxification is to manage the symptoms and signs of alcohol or drug withdrawal, other important clinical outcomes include the initiation of abstinence and linkage to self-help or aftercare treatment after discharge. Peers, who are in recovery from alcohol or drug problems, may be helpful in achieving these other clinical goals. The objective of this preliminary study was to evaluate the relationship between volunteer peer counseling during hospitalization for the management of alcohol or drug withdrawal and outcomes after discharge. METHODS: Patients, hospitalized for detoxification, were recruited for this observational, nonrandomized study that compared patients who received usual care with those who had received a peer visit in addition to usual care. Baseline information was abstracted from the medical record and follow-up data were obtained by telephone 7 to 10 days after hospitalization. RESULTS: Of the 119 enrolled in the study, outcome data were obtained from 99 (83%) participants. As compared with those who did not received peer counseling (n=80), those who did (n=19) were significantly more likely to report that they had attended self-help group meetings (90% vs. 64%, P=0.05) during the first week after discharge. They also tended to be more likely to remain abstinent from all substances (84% vs. 59%, P=0.06) and initiate professional aftercare treatment (100% vs. 82%, P=0.06). CONCLUSIONS: Peer counseling during hospitalization is associated with increased patient attendance at self-help group meetings after discharge from inpatient detoxification.