Alcohol Brief Intervention

Healthwatch South Tyneside worked with the local Public Health Department to look at local strategies to reduce alcohol consumption.  They engaged with 64 people.

More than four-fifths of respondents said they had been asked by a health professional about their alcohol intake and, of these, all gave an answer as to who had asked them – ranging from GP to nurse to dentist to online pharmacy. Less than a fifth had been asked to complete a questionnaire by the health professional.

It would appear questions about alcohol consumption have become routine during general health checks and, where appropriate, a number of patients were referred to South Tyneside Adult Recovery Service (STARS). There was a definite brand recognition for this service, with positive comments including ‘great support’ and ‘a lifeline’.

There were also strong opinions about appropriate times for medical professionals to ask questions about alcohol consumption. They included during pregnancy, any appointments relating to mental health and anyone going through the grieving process. But some thought it should be a standard question at any medical appointment.