[MajestyJo]

Should a sponsor recommend hospitalization?

Though increasing numbers of newcomers are reaching A.A. immediately after leaving a hospital or a treatment center, the majority (from 50% to 75%, surveys indicate) still arrive at A.A. as most newcomers always have - either still drinking and wanting to stop, or having just stopped on their own. Many of these people are able to survive the first difficult days of sobriety without hospitalization, but some are in poor physical condition. hospitalization for a brief drying-out period may be indicated, or a longer period of quiet recuperation in a rest home may seem desirable.

The important thing to remember is that hospitalization is not part of the A.A. program and that a doctor, not a sponsor, is the person who should say whether it is required. Experienced sponsors are careful not to set them- selves up as substitutes for doctors in dealing with any phase of alcoholism.

With the increase in hospital facilities open to alcoholics, some sponsors are inclined to suggest hospitalization to nearly all newcomers. But many of us recovered, even though we were in bad physical condition when we came in, without going to a hospital or drying-out spot. For some, hospitalization is essential - but not for everyone.

A.A. does not own or operate hospital or convalescence facilities of any kind. In some areas, arrangements have been made for hospitals to set aside space for patients admitted through an A.A. central or Intergroup office. In other areas, individuals familiar with the A.A. program have opened rest homes or farms. In reaching a decision on the use of such facilities, the alcoholic, the family, and the physician should understand that hospitalization, while useful in many cases, is separate from the A.A. program.

An A.A. old-timer offers this reminder: Hospitalization or other professional care given to a newcomer "does not in any way lessen the responsibility of the A.A. member to carry the message in the best way possible, and to furnish good sponsorship. It is not good A.A. simply to dump an alcoholic into the lap of others because we do not have enough time, or because the alcoholic is troublesome and demanding. Most of us recall with gratitude the enduring patience and great kindness older members showed us when we were new ourselves."

to be continued...