Frequent follow-up as data gathering and continued care with alcoholics.

THe clinical value of frequent follow-up interviews as a form of continuing care for alcoholics was investigated. Sixty-seven male subjects who had participated in an inpatient alcohol research treatment study were followed up monthly for 2 years and interviewed in depth at the end of 2 years. Almost all subjects felt that the frequent follow-up contacts had functioned for them as continued supportive care. The possibility that frequent follow-up interviews may serve to consolidate and increase gains made in treatment is discussed.