Implementation of a screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment program using the electronic medical record in a pediatric trauma center.

The purpose of this project was to develop and implement a consistent process for (1) screening adolescents by history for alcohol and substance abuse and (2) providing a motivational interview for change and appropriate referrals as needed. In the 18 months since we implemented the program, 534 patients were eligible for screening. Of these, 442 actually underwent screening and of these, 32 screened positive, thus receiving a brief intervention by social work and referral for further treatment. Use of the electronic medical record was key to the implementation and sustainability of this project.