Screening and brief interventions for alcohol use disorders in managed care settings

Area of Science:

• Addiction Medicine
• Primary Care
• Managed Care Systems

Background:

• Alcohol use disorders are prevalent in general medical settings.
• Effective identification and treatment are crucial within managed care frameworks.
• Existing clinical protocols need adaptation for primary care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a clinical protocol for identifying and treating alcohol use disorders.
• To provide primary care clinicians with tools for routine patient care.
• To integrate evidence-based practices for alcohol use disorders into managed care.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the best available data on problem drinking prevalence.
• Implementing standardized screening procedures.
• Applying brief intervention techniques ('talk therapy').
• Developing a four-step protocol for clinicians.

Main Results:

• The chapter outlines a practical protocol for screening, assessment, advice/referral, and follow-up.
• Clinical protocols are designed for primary care clinicians.
• The approach is tailored for implementation within managed care environments.

Conclusions:

• The presented protocol aids clinicians in managing alcohol use disorders effectively.
• Integration into managed care systems can improve patient outcomes.
• The NIAAA Physicians' Guide protocol offers a structured approach for primary care.