Implementing pragmatic case finding to address alcohol use in general practice: a mixed methods feasibility study.
Sebastian Potthoff, Håvar Brendryen, Haris Bosnic et al.
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In 30 seconds
This mixed-methods feasibility study assessed educational outreach visits designed to embed pragmatic case finding (PCF) for alcohol use in general practice in Stavanger and Oslo, Norway. Four visits involved 37 GPs and 22 support staff. Interviews with 10 GPs and surveys completed by 19 GPs explored acceptability, practice experiences, and changes in behavioural determinants. GPs considered the visits feasible and acceptable, generally preferring in-person delivery. Survey responses showed a gradual positive shift in knowledge, skills, and goals for discussing alcohol. The study did not assess patient-level outcomes.
Key findings
- Four educational outreach visits involved 37 GPs and 22 support staff in clinics in Stavanger and Oslo.
- Interviewed GPs (n = 10) viewed the visits as feasible and acceptable, and preferred in-person to remote delivery.
- Survey findings (n = 19) indicated a gradual positive shift in GPs’ knowledge, skills, and goals for discussing alcohol.
- GPs described normalising alcohol discussions as a way to reduce stigma, while noting the challenge of changing established habits.
Why it matters
Universal alcohol screening can be resource-intensive and may not fit GPs’ perceived professional role. This feasibility study suggests that linking alcohol discussions to relevant clinical contexts, supported by tailored outreach, may be acceptable to primary care teams and may strengthen clinicians’ readiness to raise the topic. Whether this translates into sustained practice change or improved patient outcomes remains unknown.
What to keep in mind
This was a feasibility study with small interview and survey groups; it did not establish sustained implementation or patient-level outcomes.