Training health professional students to conduct SBIRT: A step forward to interprofessional collaboration to address substance use

Substance use (SU) remains a significant public health problem. Screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) is an evidence-based method to address patient SU. Training students from multiple disciplines can positively impact continuity of care for these patients.

The SBIRT training was incorporated into the physician assistant, physical therapy, pharmacy and counseling curricula via online modules and live skills practice. Knowledge about screening for harmful SU and developing confidence to discuss SU using motivational interviewing (MI) to facilitate positive behavior changes were the outcomes.

Training outcomes were measured for three consecutive years, assessed via pre- and post-training assessments and ratings of SBIRT interactions with patients. Knowledge gains and improved perceived competence to address SU were found. Successful curricular integration was achieved and has been maintained.

Online training modules and resources are available through the Program Evaluation and Research Unit (PERU) at the University of Pittsburgh at https://www.peru.pitt.edu/ihsi/.