Summary
The document covers the full pathway of care for a person with alcohol dependence, from initial identification and diagnostic confirmation to continuing follow-up, relapse prevention and medical-social rehabilitation. The diagnostic section includes clinical interviewing, subjective and collateral history, and assessment of mental, neurological and physical health. Laboratory, instrumental and psychological investigations are used when indicated to evaluate alcohol-related consequences, identify coexisting conditions and support differential diagnosis.
The protocol guides selection of the appropriate care setting: outpatient treatment, day care, a specialist inpatient unit or a rehabilitation programme. This decision is based on the stage and course of dependence, the severity of withdrawal, psychotic, neurological or physical complications, the person’s motivation and the available social environment. Care is presented as a coordinated combination of medical interventions, psychotherapy and support aimed at restoring everyday and social functioning. Informed consent, contraindications, safety monitoring and evaluation of treatment effectiveness are treated as essential parts of the process.
The longer-term section addresses restorative and relapse-prevention treatment, ongoing clinical observation and individually planned rehabilitation. It describes motivational work, cognitive-behavioural and other psychotherapeutic approaches, individual and group formats, and involvement of relatives where appropriate. The objectives extend beyond stopping alcohol use to strengthening self-regulation, rebuilding family and occupational relationships and maintaining stable remission. The protocol also links medical outcomes with social recovery and continuity of care after inpatient treatment. A specific care plan must be selected by a qualified professional after direct assessment and with reference to the complete official protocol.