Alcohol Concern have released a report demonstrating a model of working with 'change resistant drinkers', part of the wider 'Blue Light Project'.
The Nottinghamshire Alcohol Related Long Term Condition Team (LTC) assertively case manage people with a combination of alcohol dependence, an alcohol related long term physical health condition and a high risk of readmission to hospital.
The LTC team consists of four nurses and an administrator who cover the south of Nottinghamshire. Through assertive case management, the service 'promotes better coordination of care leading to an appropriate use of services', resulting in improved outcomes and cost savings. One patient identified within the case studies was calculated to have cost at least £137,000 in a 12 month period. Outcomes associated with the team's work include reducing issues such as liver disease, pressure on emergency departments (ED), domestic abuse and alcohol fuelled anti-social behaviour, as well as other concerns such as street drinking.
The report however emphasises the complexity of the client group and its needs. As such, the LTC 'attempts to build its interventions on a comprehensive and holistic assessment reflecting the complexity of the client group. Only by understanding the full range of needs and risks can the team formulate an intervention appropriate to that individual.' Care planning within a multi-agency partnership approach is then integral to the service. Providing end of life/palliative care is also identified as a highly valuable element
The LTC also identifies as working with 'change resistant drinkers' so provides a real life example of the 'Blue Light Project' which aims to challenge the belief that nothing can be done with resistant drinkers who 'do not want to change'. It aims to do so by showing there are a range of positive strategies that can be used to manage risk, reduce harm and promote change.
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