THE VALUE OF DOING BRIEF INTERVENTION IN YOUR OFFICE

Brief intervention for heavy/problem drinking in your office with your own patients is highly effective.

Heavy drinkers in a primary care practice are twice as likely to have moderated their drinking after brief intervention (Wilk et al, 1997).

Regular alcohol consumption is decreased by up to 46% (Israel et al, 1996).

In fact there is good evidence that opportunistic BI by the PCP is more effective than any other alcohol treatment (Heather, 1995).

The reason for such a high level of efficacy is unclear, but probably relates to the respect your patients have for you as their primary medical provider. The fact you raise this as an issue and express your concern on their behalf provokes their attention, personal concern and behavioral vigilance (Miller, 2000).