Name of the Procedure:

Alcohol Screening
(Common names: Alcohol Use Screening, Unhealthy Alcohol Use Screening)

HCPCS Code: G9622
(Technical/Medical term: Patient not identified as an unhealthy alcohol user when screened for unhealthy alcohol use using a systematic screening method)

Summary

Alcohol Screening is a process where a healthcare provider asks a series of questions or provides a questionnaire to determine if a patient engages in unhealthy alcohol use. G9622 is used to indicate that the patient has been screened and is not identified as an unhealthy alcohol user.

Purpose

Screening for unhealthy alcohol use aims to identify patients who may be at risk of alcohol-related health issues. The screening's goal is early detection so intervention can prevent possible complications related to alcohol abuse.

Indications

• Routine health check-ups
• Pre-surgical assessments
• When a patient presents symptoms of possible alcohol misuse, such as liver issues or unexplained health problems
• Patients with a history of substance abuse

Preparation

• No fasting or specific preparations are required
• Patients may be informed about the purpose of the screening
• No diagnostic tests are required beforehand

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: The healthcare provider explains the purpose of the screening.
2. Questionnaire or Interview: The patient answers a series of questions about their alcohol use habits over a recent period.
3. Evaluation: The provider assesses the answers to determine if the patient's drinking patterns suggest unhealthy alcohol use.
4. Documentation: If the patient is not identified as an unhealthy alcohol user, this is noted using the HCPCS code G9622.

Tools Used:

• Standardized questionnaires (e.g., AUDIT, CAGE)
• Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems for documentation

Anesthesia/Sedation: None required

Duration

The screening typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in various healthcare settings, including:

• Doctor’s offices
• Outpatient clinics
• Hospitals

Personnel

• Primary care physicians
• Nurses
• Nurse practitioners
• Physician assistants

Risks and Complications

• The procedure itself has no inherent medical risks.
• Possible discomfort or embarrassment related to discussing personal alcohol use.

Benefits

• Early detection of potential alcohol use disorders.
• Helps in initiating timely interventions to prevent alcohol-related health issues.
• Enhanced patient awareness about their alcohol consumption habits.

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed since it's a non-invasive screening.
• Advice may be given based on the screening results.

Alternatives

• Self-administered online screening tools.

• Direct conversation about alcohol use without a formal screening tool.

  Pros of Alternatives:

• More privacy with self-administered options.
• More personalized assessment in an informal conversation.

Cons of Alternatives:

• Less systematic and may miss some at-risk individuals.
• Lack of standardized results for comparison.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might experience minimal discomfort related to discussing personal habits. After the procedure, patients typically feel relieved to know their alcohol use is not classified as unhealthy, or they may receive supportive resources if needed. Healthcare providers ensure a non-judgmental and confidential environment to enhance comfort.