Integrating the four components of SBIRT (i.e., screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment) into integrated team patient care processes in the primary care setting sounds good – but how do you actually implement SBIRT strategies into your team’s practice procedures?

In this third module on substance use disorders, we dive deeper into the realities of incorporating screening, intervening, and referring patients experiencing them. SBIRT is about helping patients understand where they are with substance use, planting thoughts of change, and providing small interventions that may lead to change over time. We want to ensure our integrating primary care physical and behavioral health care providers have the most current and relevant information to assist them in their work to assess, intervene, and refer patients who are exhibiting risky behavior or substance use disorders. The key points related to incorporating SBIRT in your practice, by the entire patient care team, are discussed. Every member has a role in this powerful and effective approach to early identification and treatment of substance use disorders.

Learning Objectives

• Identify the process of developing SBIRT-based protocols in your practice.
• Describe specific roles for team members within the SBIRT protocols and with the “warm hand-off.”
• Recognize the indicators of risky behavior and potential substance use disorders that would lead to you providing a brief intervention for the purpose of educating your patient.

Who should complete this module?

The information in this module is valuable for all integrated team members, including clinicians, nurses, behavioral health staff, medical assistants, front & back office staff, and care managers.

Please note!

This module was created for and funded by the Colorado State Innovation Model and the Colorado Office of Behavioral Health. While the material was originally intended for learners in Colorado, we hope the information provides a starting point for your own investigation of the resources and practices relevant to your state.