This briefing paper has been produced by SHAAP (Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems) following a conference held at the Royal College of Physicians in Edinburgh on 7th February 2008. The aim of the conference was to identify barriers to the delivery of brief interventions in the Scottish Health Service and to pinpoint action required to overcome them.
This briefing provides an overview of what is considered as best practice for screening for alcohol problems and delivery of briefing interventions (SBI), based on current research evidence and learning from roll-out and implementation at the local level. It also outlines current policy and practice in Scotland; in particular, the steps that are being taken to address barriers to implementation.