The outcome of alcohol detoxication programmes was assessed in Ontario and New York. Clinical records showed that less than 40% of patients completed the referral from thier fist detoxication to a rehabilitation programme and that the probability of entering a rehabilitation programme decreased markedly as the number of detoxications increased. Also, as the number of detoxications increased, patients were admitted to the centers more frequently and at shorter intervals. Only a small percentage showed marked benefit from multiple treatments. The success of detoxication facilities in achieving rehabilitation appeared limited.