Remote Alcohol Monitoring to Facilitate Abstinence From Alcohol: Exp 2

Remote Alcohol Monitoring to Facilitate Abstinence Reinforcement With an Underserved Population

Directly reinforcing abstinence from alcohol with monetary incentives is an effective treatment for alcohol dependence, but barriers in obtaining frequent, verified biochemical measures of abstinence limit the dissemination of this treatment approach. As our feasibility study demonstrates, remote breathalyzer monitoring drastically improves the practicality of delivering an alcohol contingency management intervention. In Experiment 2, we will test whether the addition of remote abstinence incentives to treatment as usual improves outpatient treatment outcomes and prevents relapse following inpatient detoxification at a regional hospital system. We will also assess whether readmission rates are reduced using a newly developed smartphone app and breathalyzer.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Recently completed or currently completing an alcohol detoxification program through the Carilion Clinic or University of Kentucky Healthcare system.
• Meet DSM-V criteria for alcohol use disorder.
• Abstinent from alcohol at the time of consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Alcohol use disorder is secondary to another substance use disorder.