Impact of health consequences feedback on patients acceptance of advice about alcohol consumption

Abstract

Objectives: To demonstrate the impact of health consequences feedback on patients willingness to accept advice about drinking. Methods: 281 patients identified as hazardous drinkers were offered advice about alcohol consumption. During the experimental period patients' were given feedback as to the health consequences. Results: Introduction of feedback led to a 23% increase in the proportion of patients who were willing to accept brief advice. Conclusions: Feedback provision should be included as part of Screening and Brief intervention programmes to increase the number of patients that may benefit from an intervention.