Application of SBIRT Tools in Managing Alcohol and Drug Use Disorders

To evaluate the eligibility and feasibility of the "Voice Modules in Narcology" (VMIN) program.

We developed a computer program to screen for risky alcohol or drug use, utilizing an interactive voice assistant as a motivational component. Given the low detection of such risks during population health examinations and medical check-ups, this program could allow the primary healthcare sector to expand screening coverage for risky alcohol and drug use without additional medical personnel. VMIN includes an anonymous short questionnaire (CAGE) and a question about drug use, offering a short (3-4 minutes) voice file with motivational information encouraging specialist consultation if risks are detected. The program also assesses the usefulness of the information received and the readiness to consult a narcologist for diagnosing substance use disorders. 51 outpatients under treatment at Samara State Medical University Hospital were included in the pilot project for evaluation the eligibility and feasibility program.

11 patients (21.6%) who were identified as at risk of alcohol or drug consumption listened to the voice modules after screening. Among these, 8 (72.7%) respondents provided feedback: 8 (72.7%) respondents found the information useful, 5 (45.5%) expressed willingness to change their behavior to reduce substance or alcohol use, 2 (18.2%) expressed readiness to seek specialized help, and 1 (9.1%) provided contact information for follow-up assessment of substance or alcohol use risk.

A significant proportion of patients in multi-profile hospitals' cardiology and gastroenterology units (21.6%) reported risky alcohol consumption; drug use was reported by one man (1.9%). The majority of respondents who listened to the voice modules considered the provided information useful, but only one (1.9%) shared contact information for the follow-up assessment, and 3 (27.3%) did not give feedback. The high proportion of individuals giving positive feedback provides preliminary support for the feasibility of the method.