An audit of NHS Trust alcohol policy referrals to an occupational health service

An exploratory review of 33 referrals to an Occupational Health Service of employees with alcohol problems provided information on age and sex, job category, mode of referral, medical and social problems and outcome. Case records were examined providing information on clinical assessment and the treatment options. The high rates of relapse, drop-out and refusal of help, supported the view that this population had serious alcohol problems. Clinical recording by occupational physicians showed a marked variability. No doctors were included in the sample although this group is known to be vulnerable. Blood testing was used infrequently. Occupational health clinical practice could be enhanced by the use of clinical protocols, systems of morbidity recording and co-operative studies with other agencies. Further prospective studies are needed.