Project
Bolton GP Surgery Alcohol Local Enhanced Service
Description:
In April 2008, Bolton PCT launched their alcohol Local Enhanced Service. The initiative is being piloted with 20 local GP practices for a six-month period, prior to it being rolled out across the area.
The Local Enhanced Service involves the screening of patients accessing Primary Care to establish and record their current drinking levels using the AUDIT tool. Based on the results of the screening, where appropriate, clients' are given brief interventions and/or onward referral into established Community Alcohol Treatment Services in Bolton. The service incorporates a reward element with payments made to practices’ for setup costs, AUDIT screening’s completed and brief interventions delivered.
This project aims for the majority of patients at each practice to be screened and provided with basic advice and information about alcohol consumption. Participant practices will also display information in waiting areas about alcohol awareness and local services.
Training for practices is being provided as part of the scheme. This comprises one day's training in behavioural change techniques and motivational skills followed by an additional half day on harmful and hazardous drinking, its impact on health, the alcohol screening tool and onward referral. Practices receive payment for those professional attending the training to ensure that cover can be arranged.
Project status: Ongoing
Project type: Screening and brief intervention
Project code: O4SA
