An innovative approach to addressing alcohol use disorder is being tested in Oklahoma primary care clinics, offering hope for early intervention in problem drinking. Brandi Fink, Ph.D., a dedicated researcher and associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences at the University of Oklahoma, has developed the Personal Alcohol Management System (PALMS) to help health professionals identify and assist individuals before their drinking spirals out of control.

PALMS, a user-friendly assessment conducted on an iPad during routine medical visits, provides personalised feedback to patients based on their alcohol consumption habits. It also relays results to healthcare providers, recommending follow-up action if necessary. This innovative tool fosters early conversations around alcohol use disorder, tackling a pressing issue in primary care.

PALMS Enhances Patient Care and Provider Efficiency

During its first clinical trial phase involving 235 participants, PALMS received overwhelmingly positive feedback, particularly for its ease of use. Patients rated it highly, while healthcare providers noted an improvement in their interactions with patients who admitted to problem drinking. Fink emphasised that nearly 20% of primary care patients consume alcohol at hazardous levels, which can exacerbate conditions like diabetes and hypertension, as well as increase the risk of cancer.

Fink also highlighted that many adults with a substance use disorder are unaware of their problem. PALMS aims to bridge that gap by making alcohol consumption a routine discussion in primary care, simplifying early detection.

A Promising Future for Preventing Problem Drinking

Looking ahead, Fink plans to integrate PALMS into electronic health records and patient portals, enabling individuals to complete the assessment at home. This strategy not only encourages honesty to improve accuracy but also equips providers with actionable data during appointments. Focus groups with healthcare administrators have shown enthusiasm for the system, as it aids in managing high-risk patients and aligning practices with accreditation standards.

Earlier this year, the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology Bootcamps Substance Use Disorders Ventures program selected Fink to participate, recognizing her commitment to addressing alcohol use disorder. The experience has energised her to seek novel solutions for combating substance use, both commercially and through clinical research.

Source: News-Medical Net