Drinker's Check-Up (USA)

Description:

The site uses the AUDIT screening questionnaire to identify problem drinkers (score 8+). The intervention has 3 modules – Assessment, Feedback and Decision Making. The Decision Making module also includes a ‘readiness to change’ assessment before asking users to list pros and cons of drinking and then offers a range of options on how to achieve change to reach chosen goal (e.g., moderation).

Service URL:

http://www.drinkerscheckup.com

Agency Responsible:

Dr Reid Hester.

Details

Format:

Website.

Intervention Type:

Other. Motivational Interviewing techniques.

Course Length:

Short (less than 1 module or equivalent). 90 minutes to complete.

Support Option:

No support.

Target Audience

Primary Category:

Alcohol.

Target Audience:

Adult.

Language:

English.

Access

Fee:

Free.

Access:

Open: With registration.

Contact Details:

reidhester@behaviortherapy.com

Research evidence

Research Trials:

1

Research RCTs:

1

Outcome Summary:

61 people were randomised to immediate intervention or 4 week wait list. Outcomes at 12-months showed similar outcomes (relative to start points) for both groups in reducing average drinks, drinks per drinking day and estimated peak blood concentration.

Recommended rating, reviewer 1:

Recommended rating, reviewer 2:

Read more about Beacon's Smiley Rating System.

Research paper citations

Evaluation evidence studies:
Hester, R.K.,. Squires, D.D., & Delaney, H.D. (2005). The Drinker's Check-up: 12-month outcomes of a controlled clinical trial of a stand-alone software program for problem drinkers. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 28, 159-169.

Additional reference:
Walters, S.T., Chiauzzi, E., & Miller, E. (2005). Demon rum: High-tech solutions to an age-old problem. Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, 29, 2.