Written by: Dr. Janice Pringle, PhD, Director and Alicia Dosh-Eller, MPH, Training Coordinator of the Program Evaluation and Research Unit at the University of Pittsburgh, School of Pharmacy
There is a plethora of literature indicating the effectiveness of SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment), especially for alcohol use problems.[1] Given the prevalence of alcohol use disorders by college students, an apparent setting for SBIRT application would be within these institutions.[2]
Application of SBIRT has typically occurred within healthcare settings, but its use can extend beyond the student health programs. Other avenues for application may include counseling programs, Greek organizations (fraternities and sororities), training of resident assistants within student housing, athletic departments, and other specific academic programs. An adaptation of SBIRT to these settings would be necessary so that it is perceived to be a natural fit and could be sustained with fidelity over time.
The following are points for consideration when integrating SBIRT within the college setting:
- It is important to obtain the highest level of support within the setting for the program. SBIRT programs can be considered somewhat controversial, given they present a social issue that misuse of alcohol is a problem within the student body. Some universities that implemented SBIRT and successfully reduced problem drinking did not sustain the programs because of public relations concerns.
- Each college or university typically surveys its student body using standardized instruments to identify their baseline alcohol and drug use prevalence. These surveys should be used to determine the scope of substance use problems before an SBIRT program is implemented. Such assessments are helpful in obtaining buy-in and evaluating the program’s impact.
- Since many college-based programs have limited funding and staffing, SBIRT programs must be carefully designed and implemented so that significant disruptions to typical activities do not occur.
No matter which college setting or program SBIRT is integrated into, the success of the project is dependent upon the following key necessities: (a) gaining the support and buy-in of the highest leadership possible to ensure accountability and sustainability; (b) identifying and engaging trained “champions” in each area who will commit to the project’s fidelity; (c) using a highly-specified model for implementation; and (d) obtaining viable linkages to substance use disorder treatment and access to appropriate follow-up care. By incorporating these core elements of building and sustaining successful SBIRT projects, the goal of promoting healthier college students at a lower risk for alcohol or drug-related harm can be achieved.
References:
[1] Reho, K., Agley, J., DeSalle, M., & Gassman, R. (2016). Are We There Yet? A Review of Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) Implementation Fidelity Tools and Proficiency Checklists. Journal of Primary Prevention, (Epublication), DOI 10.1007/s10935-016-0431-x
[2] Naegle, M., Himmel, J., & Ellis, P. (2013). SBIRT Goes to College: Interdisciplinary Screening for Alcohol Use. Journal of Addictions Nursing, 24(1), 45-50. DOI: 10.1097/JAN.0b013e31828768cb