Addressing Unhealthy Alcohol Use in Primary Care

While there is a wealth of published information on addiction medicine, the psychological aspects of alcohol abuse, and behavioral medicine with regard to addiction, virtually none of the existing resources were written with the primary care provider in mind. Addressing Unhealthy Alcohol Use in Primary Care is a handy reference for primary care clinicians who are confronted by patients with these problems daily, and who wish to successfully address these issues in their practice. Focusing on the literature and science relevant to practicing providers, this book covers the range of interventions appropriate for this setting. Topics include assessment, brief counseling interventions, pharmacotherapy, referrals to both specialty care and Alcoholics Anonymous (and other self-help programs), psychiatric comorbidity and other drug use, and other information specific to the needs of the primary care clinician. The vast majority of people with health risks and consequences related to alcohol use receive little to no attention from healthcare, despite the fact that alcohol is a leading cause of early preventable death. This book is a guide to identifying and addressing unhealthy alcohol use in hopes of improving the lives of patients.