Are US Trauma Centers Screening All Patients for Alcohol Status?
Terrell F, Zatzick DF, Jurkovich GJ, et al
J Am Coll Surg. 2008;207:630-638
The American College of Surgeons now requires alcohol screening and brief intervention for all level I trauma centers. The aim of this study was to assess the current status of screening/intervention programs at level 1 trauma centers in the United States. The results are based on responses from 148 of 204 centers. In 71% of centers contacted, blood screening tests (BAC) were used to determine alcohol status along with verbal screening tests, but not all injured patients were screened. Counseling was most frequently provided to patients who tested positive.
In some states, insurance companies are likely to deny injury reimbursement if the patient has been shown to be intoxicated. This could explain why BAC testing is less than universal. Brief alcohol intervention in patients with suspected addiction problems has been recognized to be an important part of post-injury rehabilitation. Additional long-term follow-up studies are needed to see if re-hospitalization rates for injury decrease following the American College of Surgeons alcohol intervention initiative.
Abstract
Terrell F, Zatzick DF, Jurkovich GJ, et al
J Am Coll Surg. 2008;207:630-638
Summary
The American College of Surgeons now requires alcohol screening and brief intervention for all level I trauma centers. The aim of this study was to assess the current status of screening/intervention programs at level 1 trauma centers in the United States. The results are based on responses from 148 of 204 centers. In 71% of centers contacted, blood screening tests (BAC) were used to determine alcohol status along with verbal screening tests, but not all injured patients were screened. Counseling was most frequently provided to patients who tested positive.
Viewpoint
In some states, insurance companies are likely to deny injury reimbursement if the patient has been shown to be intoxicated. This could explain why BAC testing is less than universal. Brief alcohol intervention in patients with suspected addiction problems has been recognized to be an important part of post-injury rehabilitation. Additional long-term follow-up studies are needed to see if re-hospitalization rates for injury decrease following the American College of Surgeons alcohol intervention initiative.
Abstract
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