Transdermal technology is used to monitor alcohol consumption by measuring vaporous sweat excreted through the skin. It is currently being used in more than 40 U.S. States. This report provides a framework to assist agencies with the development of needed policies and practices to apply this technology to monitor offenders with diagnosed alcohol issues. It can assist practitioners by guiding them through the critical steps associated with implementing a comprehensive supervision system involving continuous transdermal alcohol monitoring technology. Issues addressed in the guide relate to goals and eligibility criteria; roles and responsibilities of participants; screening, assessment, and referral practices; intake and installation procedures; data collection, monitoring, and reporting; length of monitoring period; graduated responses; court testimony; fee collection; and de-installation procedures. The report also contains a series of checklists, forms, and a survey for practitioners to evaluate the success of implementation. The guide is based on in-depth interviews with court personnel, probation officials, treatment professionals and service providers. (Author/publisher)
Abstract