Ethnic Differences in Use of Alcoholism Facilities

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Abstract
As in the earlier hospital survey, this study of Indian [Chippewa] and majority alcoholics at a detoxification center indicated both similarities and differences. A few of the variations noted were in the same direction as the earlier study, such as the higher number of female Indian alcoholics as compared to female majority alcoholics. Many differences were noted as well, both between Indian and majority alcoholics at the detoxification center, as well as within each group when compared to the earlier hospital-based study. Indian alcoholics apparently used treatment facilities in a more appropriate way than majority alcoholics (i.e., more incapacitated Indian alcoholics go to a hospital), and the use of treatment facilities by majority alcoholics was related more to social factors (employment and marital status) than to disability. Communities should assess their utilization patterns for drug and alcohol treatment facilities along both socioeconomic and clinical lines. Detoxification centers, residential facilities and halfway houses should be used wherever possible in lieu of the more expensive hospital beds. A diversity of treatment resources appeared most desirable to provide care for the various clinical problems and types of people with alcohol problems. Efficiency of utilization must be maintained both to conserve cost as well as to keep staff morale high. Just as urban hospitals shoudl not be expected to treat patients with mild withdrawal, detoxification centers should not be expected to provide shelter for the ever-returning intoxicated individual. Alternate resources, such as flop houses or long-term care facilities, should be considered.

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