What Is SBIRT?
SBIRT stands for Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment. It is a public health framework used to identify people who use alcohol or drugs in ways that could harm their health, provide brief counseling to motivate healthier behaviors, and refer those with more serious substance use issues to specialized treatment.
SBIRT is designed for use in primary care clinics, emergency departments, schools, and community health settings, making it accessible to a broad population.
The Three Steps of SBIRT
1. Screening
Screening is the first step. It involves using validated, standardized tools to quickly assess a patient’s substance use. Screening is universal—meaning it’s offered to everyone in a particular setting, not just those who seem at risk. This helps catch early signs of risky use before more serious problems develop.
2. Brief Intervention
Brief intervention is a short, focused conversation between a healthcare provider and a patient who screens positive for risky substance use. The goal is to increase the patient’s awareness of how their substance use may be affecting their health, set personal goals for change, and motivate them toward healthier choices.
3. Referral to Treatment
Referral to treatment is provided for those who need more help than brief counseling can offer. If the screening shows that a person is struggling with a substance use disorder, the provider offers a warm handoff—directing the individual to specialty addiction treatment, counseling, or support services.
Who Delivers SBIRT?
Any healthcare professional—doctors, nurses, physician assistants, social workers, and community health workers—can be trained to deliver SBIRT. Schools, community organizations, and public health programs also use SBIRT to reach at-risk individuals.
Why Is SBIRT Important?
- Early Identification: SBIRT can spot risky substance use before it escalates into addiction or causes health problems.
- Prevention: Many people who receive a brief intervention reduce their substance use and avoid the need for more intensive treatment.
- Better Outcomes: Those who need more help are connected to appropriate services, improving their chances of recovery.
- Cost Savings: By addressing problems early, SBIRT can reduce hospitalizations, accidents, and other costly consequences of untreated substance use.
- Routine Care: Making SBIRT a standard part of healthcare removes the stigma around discussing substance use and normalizes getting help.
How Does SBIRT Work in Practice?
For Members (Patients)
- Get screened during your regular healthcare visits or at community events.
- Have a conversation with your provider if your screening shows risky use—this is a chance to reflect on your habits and set goals.
- Receive support if you need more help, including a referral to addiction specialists or counselors.
For Providers
- Screen all patients, not just those you suspect have a substance use issue.
- Use validated tools (like AUDIT for alcohol, DAST for drugs) to assess risk.
- Deliver a brief intervention lasting 3–15 minutes, focusing on education, feedback, and motivational support.
- Refer as needed—know local treatment options and connect patients with the appropriate level of care.
- Document everything—ensure records are complete for continuity of care and quality improvement.
Key Takeaways
- SBIRT is a proven, practical approach for early identification and intervention for risky substance use.
- Everyone in a healthcare or community setting can be screened, making it a universal prevention tool.
- Brief interventions motivate change—many people reduce or stop risky substance use after a single conversation.
- Referral to treatment is crucial for those with more serious needs, ensuring they get the right level of care.
- Integrated into routine care, SBIRT helps reduce stigma, improve health outcomes, and lower healthcare costs.
SBIRT puts the focus on early action, open conversations, and compassionate care—empowering both providers and members to address substance use as part of overall health and wellness.