Summary
What is this report about?
For many people, assessment is often the first step in accessing treatment for alcohol or drug (AOD) use. This report shows assessment is generally followed by other forms of treatment (for example, counselling or withdrawal treatment), although, not for all people. Insights into which clients are more likely to proceed to further treatment and the timing from an assessment to receiving further treatment are provided using data from the Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment Services National Minimum Data Set (AODTS NMDS). The results highlight variations in assessment practices across states and territories, reflecting differences in co-ordinated care models, availability, and accessibility of publicly funded AOD treatment in states and territories. These findings can help improve client engagement in AOD treatment and inform service delivery.
Key insights
What is happening with trends in ‘Assessment only’ episodes?
Who received an 'Assessment only' treatment?
Who goes on to receive further treatment and who did not?
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51%
Half of clients who received an ‘Assessment only’ episode went on to receive further treatment within one year.
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Regardless of whether a client receives further treatment or not, most clients main drug of concern was alcohol.
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For those who did receive further treatment, the most common next step was to receive counselling.