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To support the free and open dissemination of research findings and information on alcoholism and alcohol-related problems. To encourage open access to peer-reviewed articles free for all to view.

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Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Press Release - NEW HEALTHCARE CODES TO LEVERAGE DOCTOR-PATIENT RELATIONSHIP
October 11, 2007

Codes Will Mainstream Substance Use Screening and Intervention in Healthcare Settings

(Washington, D.C.)—Today, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) announced the publication of new healthcare codes for substance abuse screening and brief intervention (SBI). The new Current Procedural Terminology (CPT�) codes, issued by the American Medical Association (AMA), will make it possible for the health care system to efficiently report screening services for drug and alcohol abuse. The process will increase the likelihood that those with substance use disorders will receive an appropriate intervention, thereby reducing the number of patients with substance use disorders. This is the first time that a physician can dedicate both time and resources to assess their patients' risky substance use characteristics and behaviors. The new healthcare codes will go into effect on January 1, 2008.
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