An evaluation of two primary care interventions for alcohol abuse among Mexican-American patients

Abstract

Aims: This study examined the effects of two primary care interventions (a physician intervention and a clinic-based psychoeducational group) on drinking patterns, psychosocial problems and blood test results (MCV, GGT, SGOT and SGPT).

Design: Subjects were randomized into one of four treatment groups: physician intervention, psychoeducation, both interventions, or no intervention. Follow-up data were collected at 12 and 18 months.

Setting: Subjects were recruited from a family practice outpatient clinic managed by a public hospital.

Participants: Included 175 Mexican-American female and male primary care patients who screened positive for alcohol abuse or dependence. These patients were not seeking help for alcohol problems.

Interventions: Included a brief physician intervention and a 6-week patient psychoeducational group.

Measurements: The Diagnostic Interview Schedule assessed subjects for alcohol abuse; the Addiction Severity Index measured alcohol-related problems, including psychosocial issues.

Findings: All four treatment groups demonstrated significant improvement over time, with few differences between intervention and control groups.

Conclusions: Assessment can be confounded with brief interventions; future investigators should use non-assessed control groups.