The Montreal Cognitive Assessment as a predictor of dropout from residential substance use disorder treatment.

backgroundCognitive function is a challenge for many SUD patients, and residential SUD treatment is cognitively demanding. Treatment retention is a predictor for success in SUD treatment, and the literature links low cognitive function to increased dropout rates. In our study we investigate cognitive function and dropout in a residential SUD treatment setting, also accounting for psychological distress.

methodsWe screened a cohort (N = 142) of inpatients for cognitive function (MoCA®) and psychological distress (SCL-10) and calculated the relative risk for dropping out if over versus under the respective cut-off values (<26 and >1.85), and sex, and age-group (<23 years). We also employed a logistic regression with dropout as outcome and MoCA- and SCL-10 scores, and age and days before testing as input.

resultsDropout risk was higher (RR = 1.70) if scoring below MoCA cut-off, and for those younger than 23 years (RR = 2.36). The other variables did not influence dropout risk. MoCA raw scores, age, and SCL-10 were associated with dropout (p < .05); with lower symptoms of psychological distress predicting increased dropout. The interaction between MoCA and SCL-10 scores was not significant (p = .26).

conclusionsSUD patients should routinely be screened for cognitive impairment, as it predicts dropout. Screenings should be ensued by appropriate adaptations to treatment and further assessment. The MoCA is a useful screening tool for this, independent of psychological distress. Future studies should replicate our findings, investigate specific interventions, and establish SUD population norms for the MoCA.