Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) for Opioid Use Disorders

Unhealthy alcohol and other drug use are among the most common causes of preventable morbidity and mortality. Despite their frequent presentation in primary care, unhealthy alcohol and other drug use often go unrecognized.

The SBIRT Process:

  • Universal Annual Screening (S) identifies unhealthy use. 75-85% of patients will screen negative. For those who screen positive, further assessment is needed to determine level of risk.
  • Brief Intervention (BI) provides feedback about unhealthy substance use. It also focuses on education, increasing patient insight and awareness about risks related to unhealthy substance use, and enhances motivation toward healthy behavioral change.
  • Referral to Treatment (RT) helps facilitate access to addiction assessment and treatment. A referral is usually indicated for only about 5% of people screened.