Nachsorge in der psychosomatischen Rehabilitation - Wirksamkeit und Akzeptanz eines Nachsorgeprogramms via Telefon- und Face-to-Face-Kontakten

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness and acceptance of two aftercare treatments after in-patient psychosomatic rehabilitation. For this purpose rehabilitation patients were randomly assigned to an intervention condition (aftercare via telephone, n = 92, or aftercare via face-to-face, n = 47) or to a control condition without aftercare supply. Patients in the intervention condition were offered 2-4 aftercare conversations during the three months after their rehabilitation. The effectiveness of the aftercare treatment was examined by measuring symptom severity and physical and mental well-being (using the standardized questionnaires SCL-90-R and SF-12) as well as the implementation of recommendations (using a self-developed questionnaire).The acceptance of the aftercare treatment was examined in telephone interviews. Follow-ups were executed three and nine months after discharge from rehabilitation. At these follow-ups more participants in the intervention group were able to implement recommendations such as sports and exercises or out-patient psychotherapy, as compared with the control group. Likewise they could better maintain their physical well-being. Aftercare via telephone and face-to-face did not differ in effectiveness, but the time required for aftercare conversations via telephone was lower. From economically point of view, aftercare via telephone seems thus more efficient. The participants evaluated the aftercare treatment as helpful and perceived it as a motivational aid to maintain their activity and to adhere to their aims after discharge. However, a participation rate of 25 % was lower than expected. The main reasons of refusal to participate were lack of motivation, the expenditure of time and an already existing support at home (e.g. in terms of an out-patient psychotherapy).