The BIG Hospital Initiative
The BIG Hospital Initiative hosted by NORC at the University of Chicago is a Learning Collaborative to expand SBIRT to medical and behavioral health professionals and beyond. Through funding from the National SBIRT-ATTC, a SAMHSA-funded center that provides information on the latest research-based best practices related to SBIRT and coordinates national efforts to advance SBIRT, this project was able to offer an SBIRT Suite of Services for an interdisciplinary audience.
Through this project, The BIG Hospital SBIRT:
- Offers training, technical assistance, and a variety of services in the area of SBIRT;
- Uses the technology transfer model to move research findings into practice;
- Disseminates best practices and new research to stakeholders interested in SBIRT; and- Is part of a national network of experts in the area of substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery.
Connect with Us
What is SBIRT?
SBIRT is a comprehensive, integrated, public health approach to the delivery of early intervention and treatment services for persons with risky and dependent alcohol use, treatment and ongoing recovery supports.
Screening quickly assesses for the presence of risky substance use, follows positive screens with further assessment of problem use, and identifies the appropriate level of treatment.
Brief intervention focuses on increasing insight and awareness regarding substance use and motivation toward behavioral change.
Referral to treatment provides those identified as needing more extensive treatment with access to medications, primary care counseling or specialty care as needed by the patient.