Information in relation to admissions to hospitals, both public and private, of persons with alcohol related disorders is collated on behalf of my Department on an annual basis by the Health Research Board. The latest published information from the board is in respect of the year 1992. The report showed that of a total of 6,081 admissions in that year for alcohol related disorders, 5,258 were to public hospitals and psychiatric units, while 823 were to private hospitals. Figures are not available for the number of persons treated for alcoholism in specialist alcohol centres other than hospitals.
A comprehensive range of services for the treatment of alcoholism exists for both public and private patients. Services include detoxification, hospital in-patient residential programmes, residential programmes in specialist alcohol centres, out-patients programmes, day programmes and counselling. The services available are detailed in the Directory of Alcohol, Drugs and Related Services in the Republic of Ireland.