SBIRT in action: Improving patients’ lives

What is SBIRT?

Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment — commonly referred to as SBIRT — is an evidence-based approach to identifying patients who use alcohol and other drugs at dangerous levels. SBIRT’s goal is to reduce and prevent related health consequences, disease, accidents, and injuries. Risky substance use is a health issue that often goes undetected. By incorporating this reliable evidence-based tool — which is demonstrated to be reliable in identifying individuals with risk for a substance use disorder — significant harm can be prevented.  

SBIRT can be performed in a variety of settings. Screening does not have to be performed by a physician. SBIRT incorporates screening for all types of substance use with brief, tailored feedback, and advice. Simple feedback on risky behavior can be one of the most critical influences on changing patient behavior.  

Why use SBIRT?

• SBIRT is an effective tool for identifying risk behavioral and providing appropriate intervention.
• By screening for high-risk behavior, healthcare providers can use evidence-based brief interventions focusing on health and consequences, preventing future problems.
• Brief intervention focuses on increasing insight and awareness regarding substance use and motivation toward behavioral change.
• Referral to treatment provides those identified as needing more extensive treatment with access to specialty care.
• SBIRT reduces costly healthcare utilization.
• SBIRT is reimbursable through Medicaid.
• SBIRT is appropriate for any patient, regardless of age, gender, or health status.

Who delivers SBIRT services? 

Primary care centers, hospital emergency rooms, trauma centers, and community health settings have the best chance to intervene early with at-risk substance users and prevent more severe consequences. Primary care providers are the primary source of SBIRT services. However, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and behavioral health providers play an important role as well. SBIRT services are intended to be delivered in primary care medical settings as the first line of substance use harm reduction, identification, and referral to specialized services.  

Implementing SBIRT into care management  
There are multiple screening tools to use for different populations. Empire BlueCross BlueShield HealthPlus recommends the following screening tools for their brief nature, ease of use, flexibility for multiple types of patients, and indication of need for further assessment or intervention:

Reimbursement

Need help with a referral to a behavioral health specialist? 

Referrals can be complex and involve coordination across different types of services. We can help! Contact Provider Services at 800-450-8753. We’re committed to active involvement with our care provider partners and going beyond the contract to create a real impact on the health of our communities. 

Sources:  

1. Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) in Behavioral Healthcare, April 1, 2019, samhsa.gov. 
2. Alcohol Screening and Brief Intervention: A Guide for Public Health Practitioners, American Public Health Association, page 8.