Improving access to treatment for alcohol dependence in primary care: A qualitative investigation of factors that facilitate and impede treatment access and completion

Abstract

Background Timely intervention for people with alcohol dependence in primary care is needed. Primary care services have a key role in supporting adults with alcohol dependence and require appropriate provision of services. Objective To examine the perceptions of both primary care practitioners and adults with alcohol dependence regarding service provision and to describe help seeking behaviours for adults with alcohol dependence. Design and setting Qualitative study consisting of semi-structured interviews with adults with alcohol dependence, healthcare professionals and staff members of specialist alcohol services who had previous or current experience in the management, treatment, or referral of adults with alcohol dependence in Northwest England. Method Interviews were conducted with ten adults with alcohol dependence and 15 staff. Data were analysed thematically, applying principles of constant comparison. Results Three themes were identified following inductive thematic analysis. The first theme, point of access relates to current service provision being reactive rather than preventative, the stigma associated with alcohol dependence and a person’s preparedness to change. The second theme identified was treatment process and pathways that highlights difficulties of engagement, mental health support, direct access and person-centred support. The third theme was follow-up care and discusses the opportunities and threats of transitional support or aftercare for alcohol dependence, signposting and peer support. Conclusion There are clear opportunities to support adults with alcohol dependence in primary care and the need to increase provision for timely intervention for alcohol related issues in primary care.