Category: Federal Forum Posters
Purpose: In 2015 over 15 million adults met diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorder (AUD) but only six percent received pharmacological treatment. Lack of knowledge of medication options, fears of stigmatization, and the belief that treatment is ineffective all contribute to low treatment rates. Treatment rates for AUD are also notably low across many VA Health Care System sites as well. Studies suggest that access to effective AUD treatment may be improved by educational programs directed at primary care providers. An initiative to make AUD resources more available may increase knowledge and improve utilization of AUD pharmacotherapy options.
Methods: This project will be conducted at a VA Health Care System site. The first phase will consist of AUD education for primary care providers using existing educational materials. Academic detailing pharmacists will deliver education through departmental in-services, and providers will be directed to a mental health clinical pharmacist who can provide additional provider education or manage AUD medication regimens. The second phase will be a single-center retrospective chart review. A list of Veterans with AUD who received primary care services during July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018 will be generated and medical records will be reviewed to identify Veterans who are not receiving pharmacotherapy for AUD. A chart note will be placed to alert primary care providers to available treatment options. Providers will be encouraged to prescribe appropriate pharmacotherapy or to consult the clinical pharmacist. Thirty days after a note is added, the medical record will be reviewed. For notes that did not result in action, investigators will follow up and provide a referral for an academic detailing consultation. For notes that result in action, investigators will document therapies chosen and follow up in ninety days to determine adherence through refill records.
Results: not applicable
Conclusion: not applicable
Rachel Hartwig
– PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Resident, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR135 Views