New methods of treatment efficacy research: bridging clinical research and clinical practice

A variety of methodological advances are allowing alcoholism treatment researchers to develop effective new treatments and to answer more complex questions regarding the efficacy of treatments for alcohol use disorders. These advances include the use of standardized diagnostic criteria; thorough description of the study populations; standardization of treatments (e.g., through the use of manuals); training of treatment providers; quality control procedures and manipulation checks; and multidimensional, longitudinal assessments. Many of these methods can be adopted by clinicians to improve clinical care as well as to meet the challenges posed by managed care and other changes in the years ahead.