Maximizing patient follow‐up after alcohol treatment: The effect of a three‐step reminding system on response rates

Background Longitudinal research has many strengths, but is often compromised by attrition of participants. This is a particular problem in studies with ‘difficult‐to‐reach’ populations. Recommended techniques for maximizing retention are often impractical for routine clinical services.Aims To examine whether methods that are available in routine practice can achieve satisfactory follow‐up of a cohort of patients, 11 months after assessment for alcohol treatment.Methods Using a longitudinal cohort design, we tested the incremental effect of a simple three‐step approach with 124 consecutive patients seeking treatment for alcohol problems: first an interview appointment, then postal questionnaires and, finally, a reminder by telephone or letter. Data on treatment compliance and self‐reports of drinking behaviour during the 11‐month follow‐up period were obtained.Results Stage of contact was significantly associated with treatment compliance and treatment outcome. The final telephone reminder proved to be an important step in obtaining a sample that more accurately reflected both the treatment attendance and outcome of the original cohort.Conclusions Intensive resources, contact with multiple agencies and financial incentives were not necessary to achieve a contact rate of 75% and successful follow‐up of 67%. Alcohol treatment outcome research is feasible within services with limited time and resources.