Assume I choose the pre-post design and the Addiction Severity Index for assessment, could you give me an example regarding how the data collection procedure goes?

No worries.

I see. Thanks.

Sure. Baseline data are collectible from all clients at entry into treatment using a specially designed intake form and the ASI (or other selected instruments). Besides, it is recommended that the Index of Recovery Capital be included among the instruments. Upon completion of treatment, the same set of data collection instruments should be administered to the clients. The clients are then followed up after discharge and the data collection exercise should be repeated 6 months, 12 months, 24 months, 36 months, and 48 months following discharge. These subsequent sets of data are compared with the baseline data (collected at intake) to assess change. This follow-up design will show to what extent the improvement achieved by the clients while in treatment is maintained after treatment. For example, using the various outcome variables, clients participating in the program are compared with those not participating. This will show if clients participating in the program fared better after discharge than those not participating. Furthermore, to facilitate the tracing and locating of clients for follow-up assessment, their contact details (including residential address and telephone number, when available) must be adequately recorded during the intake interview. Their written consent to participate in the follow-up assessment should also be obtained at intake.