March 3, 2026Open Access

Interrupted Time Series Analysis of Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment Utilisation During the Coronavirus Pandemic in Hamburg, Germany

Key Points

Overall treatment utilisation for alcohol use disorder saw a significant decline during the pandemic, suggesting greater health risks.
Inpatient settings experienced the most pronounced drop, which may correlate with rising rates of alcohol-related deaths.
Interrupted time series analysis provided insights into treatment trends across various pandemic phases and service types.
Findings highlight the need for enhanced access to alcohol use disorder treatment during public health emergencies.

Abstract

The utilisation of AUD treatment services dropped substantially during the pandemic, particularly in inpatient settings. This reduction may have contributed to the rise in alcohol-related deaths during this period. This study is the first to assess long-term inpatient and outpatient treatment trends across multiple pandemic phases.

Interrupted Time Series Analysis of Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment Utilisation During the Coronavirus Pandemic in Hamburg, Germany

Key Points

Abstract

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