Evidence-based Practices to Treat Substance Use Conditions

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Background

Although effective, evidence-based treatments for alcohol and drug use conditions exist, their use is neither widespread, consistent, nor easily assessed. Establishing a set of well-specified, evidence-based practices for treatment of substance use conditions can lay the foundation for future performance measures and improvements in the quality of care.

In December 2004, the National Quality Forum (NQF) conducted a workshop addressing effective treatment for patients with substance use disorders (SUDs). Participants recommended seven general categories of treatment practices for SUDs that are supported by good evidence of effectiveness:

  • opportunistic screening for alcohol misuse in all healthcare settings
  • brief intervention, by a healthcare practitioner trained in this technique, for patients identified with SUDs (both drug and alcohol)
  • a written treatment “prescription” for needed services for all patients assessed and diagnosed with SUD
  • initiation of effective psychosocial interventions for all patients referred for specialty SUD treatment
  • consideration of addiction-focused pharmacotherapy for patients with alcohol or opioid dependence
  • systematic activities to promote patient engagement and retention in treatment by specialty SUD providers
  • processes for engaging SUD patients in long-term monitoring/management through collaboration between specialty and primary care providers

Scope

This project will build on the results of the workshop by:

  • establishing a set of more detailed and fully specified candidate practices within each of the seven areas recommended by the workshop
  • reviewing the importance, effectiveness, feasibility, and usefulness of the candidate practices, including their usefulness as the basis for future performance measures
  • pursuing national consensus around the identified practices

Funding

Funding for this project has been provided by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

For more information, contact the National Quality Forum at 202.783.1300 or info@qualityforum.org.