EFFECTIVENESS OF THE THERAPEUTIC COMMUNITY INTERVENTION PROGRAM OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH-TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION CENTER (DOH-TRC)

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the Therapeutic Community Intervention Program operated by the Department of Health-Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (DOH-TRC) in the Philippines. The research focused on four components of the program, namely the Residential, Outpatient, Aftercare, and Recovery Home programs. The study determined the areas of success and those requiring improvement to enhance the overall effectiveness of each program. Structured questionnaires and surveys were administered to two groups of respondents – program staff and patients – who had received the respective intervention programs. The survey questions were designed to evaluate the effectiveness of various aspects of the programs, such as treatment plan individualization, program implementation fidelity, program structure, family involvement, patient support systems, post-treatment monitoring, relapse prevention, and post-recovery support. The statistical analysis revealed significant insights into the effectiveness of each program. The Residential and Recovery Home programs received high mean scores, indicating that staff and patients perceived them as highly effective. However, the Outpatient and Aftercare programs demonstrated areas requiring attention and improvement. The Outpatient Program showed that family support, patient anxiety towards reintegration into the community, and the absence of a program for patient and family interaction were significant concerns. For the Aftercare Program, areas of concern included the lack of a structured patient monitoring system and financial support for staff assigned to monitor aftercare patients. The findings offered valuable insights into areas that needed enhancement to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Based on the data findings, a comprehensive action plan was developed to improve the effectiveness of the Therapeutic Community Intervention Program. The action plan involved specific key performance indicators, activities, budget allocations, timelines, personnel involvement, and continuous quality improvement efforts tailored to each program. The study provided information on the advantages and disadvantages of the Therapeutic Community Intervention Program implemented by DOH-TRC. By implementing the proposed action plan, the center can further improve the effectiveness of its Residential, Outpatient, Aftercare, and Recovery Home programs, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and contributing to the program's overall success in combating substance abuse and promoting lasting recovery. Continuous evaluation and improvement will be essential to ensure the program remains responsive to the evolving needs of its participants and consistently delivers high-quality care.