A theory-based implementation program for alcohol screening and brief intervention (ASBI) in general practices:...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• General Practice Research

Background:

• Alcohol screening and brief intervention (ASBI) effectively reduces patient alcohol consumption.
• Despite proven benefits, ASBI is underutilized in routine general practice.
• There is a critical need for effective strategies to implement ASBI in primary care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an ASBI implementation program for general practitioners (GPs).
• To increase ASBI delivery rates by GPs.
• To decrease alcohol consumption among patients receiving ASBI.

Main Methods:

• A four-step method based on the Behaviour Change Wheel and Theoretical Domains Framework was used for program development.
• The program includes an e-learning module, tailored feedback, and environmental support.
• A two-arm cluster randomised controlled trial in Dutch general practices will evaluate the program's effectiveness.

Main Results:

• The developed program consists of an e-learning module, tailored feedback, and environmental support.
• Hypothesized outcomes include increased ASBI delivery by GPs.
• Expected patient outcomes include a decrease in excessive alcohol use and reduced consumption in the intervention group.

Conclusions:

• A theory- and practice-based ASBI implementation program was successfully developed.
• The program is expected to enhance ASBI delivery by GPs.
• The program has the potential to reduce patient alcohol consumption and improve public health outcomes.