Name of the Procedure:

Alcohol and/or Drug Intervention Service (Planned Facilitation) (H0022)

Summary

This procedure involves a planned intervention to help individuals who are struggling with alcohol or drug abuse. The intervention consists of assessing the person’s substance use, providing counseling, enhancing motivation, and facilitating treatment entry.

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to address substance use disorders and encourage individuals to seek long-term treatment and recovery. The main goals include recognizing the impact of substance use, motivating change, and connecting the person to appropriate care.

Indications

• Symptoms of heavy, persistent alcohol or drug use.
• Deterioration in physical health, mental health, or social functioning due to substance use.
• Family or social concerns about an individual’s substance abuse.
• Individuals who have failed other attempts at sobriety or have recently relapsed.

Preparation

• Patients may need to provide a detailed history of their substance use.
• No fasting or specific medication adjustments are typically required.
• Preliminary assessments, such as blood tests or psychological evaluations, might be conducted.

Procedure Description

1. Assessment: The healthcare professional will conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient’s substance use pattern and its impacts.
2. Planning: A structured plan is developed, targeting the patient’s readiness to change.
3. Intervention: Involves motivational interviewing and supportive counseling.

4. Facilitation: If the patient agrees, immediate entry into a treatment program is facilitated.

   Tools may include counseling materials and assessment questionnaires. No anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The entire intervention service typically takes around 1-2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is performed in various settings such as outpatient clinics, hospitals, or specialized treatment centers.

Personnel

• Certified addiction counselors
• Psychologists or psychiatrists
• Social workers or case managers

Risks and Complications

• Emotional distress due to sensitive discussions
• Resistance or denial of the problem, leading to a lack of cooperation
• Rarely, aggressive behavior or immediate withdrawal symptoms

Benefits

• Increased awareness of substance abuse issues.
• Improved motivation to pursue treatment.
• Direct linkage to appropriate and effective treatment options.

Recovery

• Post-intervention care includes adherence to recommended treatment plans.
• Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor progress.
• Immediate lifestyle changes and ongoing support from healthcare providers or support groups.

Alternatives

• Voluntary self-referral to addiction services.
• Inpatient detoxification programs without prior structured intervention.
• Harm reduction strategies such as controlled drinking or drug use programs.

Patient Experience

Patients may experience a range of emotions from relief to anger. While some might feel immediate motivation to change, others might resist the discussion. Pain management is generally not applicable, though emotional support and comfort measures will be provided throughout the process.