A computerized information system for monitoring and evaluating substance misuse services.

A computerized, comprehensive information system for the managerial monitoring and evaluation of local substance misuse service delivery is presented. It is based on a model which comprises basic elements of service provision such as, client caseload, time management and workload, work and client satisfaction, in both quantitative and qualitative terms. Findings from its initial implementation in a community drug team and drug dependency units in one of the London District Health Authorities are discussed. The possibility of using this evaluation package by drug and alcohol agencies themselves for the purpose of self-evaluation and monitoring as well as quality assurance is also discussed.