Abstract
Introduction: Since 1950s, sobering-up stations (SUS) represent traditional type of health care of persons with acute intoxication with addictive substances, especially alcohol. Their number reduced after 1989 and information about their functioning is scarce.
Goal: To describe and to analyse current state of SUS in the Czech Republic and to identify associated problems and systemic gaps. Results: By 1 February 2012, 17 SUS existed in 12 (out of 14) Czech regions.
Their total capacity was 150 slots. Capacity was reported as insufficient especially in big cities.
Clients are referred to SUS mainly by state or municipal police, however decision on initiation of service is taken excusively by medical doctor in charge. Minors are usually not among clients of SUSs.
Treatment of adults which is obligatory by law is reported just by one half of SUSs. Just one quarter of SUSs cooperate with local addiction out-patient treatment centre.
Cases intoxicated with other substance than alcohol are on rise recently. Apart from safe detoxication, SUSs provide clinical examination and emergency service in acute cases.
Insolvency and execution of outstanding debts from clients, insufficient facilities and lack of follow-up addiction counselling and treatment are major expressed problems of SUSs. Operation of SUS is often ensured by nurses and lower health personnel, medical doctor is available for initiation and discharge and called by phone if needed.
Fee for clients for the service in SUSs vary from 600 to 8900 CZK (approx. € 25–350). Conclusion: Availability and range of services in SUSs vary substantially including SUSs in he same regions.
The most frequent problems of SUSs are problems linked to payment for service and their execution. Other problems are represented by insufficient staffing, technical equipment and facilities of SUSs and lack of follow-up addiction care.
Conditions for operation of SUSs should be better defined by law or methodological guidelines.