The Authors’ Own Words: Feasibility and Acceptability of an Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interview Version of the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) in Primary Care Patients

The Authors’ Own Words: We ask authors to describe their impressions regarding the implications of their accepted work, how their findings will change practice, and what is noteworthy about the work.

Feasibility and Acceptability of an Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interview Version of the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) in Primary Care Patients

Suzanne E. Spear, PhD; Michele Shedlin, PhD; Brian Gilberti, MD; Maya Fiellin, BA; & Jennifer McNeely, MD, MS

Volume 37, 2016 – Issue 2

“Patient perspectives on substance use screening in health settings have received little attention in the literature. This study is among the first to describe patient attitudes toward screening for substance use in primary care, and is the first in-depth exploration of patient views on the feasibility and acceptability of the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). The results of this study suggest that the audio computer assisted self-interview (ACASI) version of the ASSIST is acceptable to patients, and that a computer self-administered approach should be considered as a strategy for reducing barriers to screening in primary care. Computerized methods can facilitate the collection of patient reported information, and are congruent with trends toward integrating patient-reported information into electronic medical records and using online portals for patients to access their health information.”