A Web-based intervention used in general practice for people with excessive alcohol consumption

J Telemed Telecare. 2005:11 Suppl 1:39-41. doi: 10.1258/1357633054461895.

Abstract

Down Your Drink is a Web-based brief intervention for hazardous drinkers. We conducted a pilot study of its usefulness in general practice. Visitors to the Website were invited to complete the Fast Alcohol Screening Test and positive responders were offered a six-week interactive Web-based programme. There were 1319 registrations in the six-month study period. In all, 815 (62%) registrants completed week one, and 79 (6%) stayed with the programme until the end. Usage of the Website was distributed through the day, with the highest levels between 10:00 and 14:00. Two focus groups with general practitioners were conducted to explore the potential for using the site in primary-care settings. Website interventions for excessive drinkers therefore appear to be feasible and may prove a useful additional tool for intervention in general practice.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alcoholism / rehabilitation*
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Family Practice / instrumentation*
  • Family Practice / methods
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Male
  • Pilot Projects
  • Remote Consultation / instrumentation*
  • Remote Consultation / methods