Assessing the effectiveness of an Internet-based videoconferencing platform for delivering intensified substance abuse counseling.
Enhanced schedules of counseling can improve response to routine opioid-agonist treatment, although it is associated with increased time demands that enhance patient resistance and nonadherence. Internet-based counseling can reduce these concerns by allowing patients to participate from home. This study assesses treatment satisfaction and response to Internet-based (CRC Health Group's e-Getgoing) group counseling for partial responders to methadone maintenance treatment. Patients testing positive for an illicit substance (n = 37) were randomly assigned to e-Getgoing or onsite group counseling and followed for 6 weeks. Patients in both conditions responded favorably to intensified treatment by achieving at least 2 consecutive weeks of abstinence and 100% attendance to return to less-intensive care (e-Getgoing: 70% vs. routine: 71%, ns). Treatment satisfaction was good and comparable across conditions. E-Getgoing patients expressed a preference for the Internet-based service, reporting convenience and increased confidentiality as major reasons. Integrating Internet-based group counseling with on-site treatment services could help expand the continuum of care in methadone maintenance clinics.
King
Van L
VL
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA. kingvl@jhmi.edu
Stoller
Kenneth B
KB
Kidorf
Michael
M
Kindbom
Kori
K
Hursh
Steven
S
Brady
Thomas
T
Brooner
Robert K
RK
D000328:Adult; D003376:Counseling / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010349:Patient Compliance; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D049269:Videoconferencing