DIRECTORS PERCEPTIONS OF THE EFFECTS OF MANAGED CARE IN OUTPATIENT SUBSTANCE-ABUSE TREATMENT

This study examines the perceptions of unit directors' regarding the e ffects of managed care on outpatient treatment and operations. Specifi cally we propose that perceptions vary as a function of managed care p enetration, managed care complexity, and the stringency of managed car e oversight procedures Data are from a nationally representative sampl e survey of 236 outpatient substance abuse treatment organizations con ducted in 1995. Study findings support the thesis that directors' perc eptions vary systematically with specific attributes of managed care. Specifically, directors' perceptions of positive managed care effects are associated with two managed care oversight procedures: (a) managed care limits on the number of sessions provided; and (b) managed care requirements for follow-up after treatment. Directors perceptions of n egative effects of managed care are significantly related to (a) manag ed care penetration, (b) managed care complexity; and (c) four differe nt managed care oversight procedures. These results have implications for treatment given the rapid growth in managed behavioral care.