Addressing substance use issues: The professional and the patient

Integrating screening and brief intervention services (SBI) as a routine practice in healthcare settings is an evidence-based approach to reducing health and other consequences attributed to substance use among patients. Beginning March 1st the Joint Commission will pilot screening and brief intervention measures and obtain information about how the measures and specifications can be enhanced to provide more reliable data for alcohol use. As screening and brief intervention for substance use continues to move into the medical mainstream, it is important to also address substance use issues among healthcare professionals, as substance use among providers can be a barrier to effective implementation of SBI. The prevalence of substance use disorders among healthcare professionals is similar to the general population, and can be difficult to monitor. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing states that approximately 15% of healthcare professionals struggle with drug dependence at some point in their careers. It is important for healthcare professionals to be aware of the possibility of colleagues diverting controlled substances and to be aware of the appropriate protocols to follow to report a colleague. Furthermore, it is important for healthcare settings to establish and implement appropriate policies and procedures to address substance use issues among healthcare professionals. This presentation provides an overview of an initiative in Colorado to introduce screening and brief intervention practices to hospitals statewide while educating hospital administrators and staff about the prevalence, signs, and symptoms of substance use disorders among healthcare professionals, as well as discussing appropriate reporting mechanisms.