The challenge
NENC ICB commissioned NECS to identify target cohorts of the population that were less likely to have received alcohol screening and interventions, and who would benefit from them the most to increase recording of alcohol screening and alcohol identification and brief advice (IBA) in primary care. NECS would also undertake a quantitative evaluation after 12 months to determine the potential impact of the project against a control PCN not participating.
Our response
NECS utilised a population health management approach and engaged with Primary Care Networks (PCNs) to analyse primary care data, develop ways to identify patients by deprivation, co-morbidities, age and gender, present analytical findings and discuss the methods of engagement with the target cohort. NECS also provided project support to the PCNs.
Techniques and tools:
- Analysis of primary care data and working with participating practices to develop ways to identify patients within each cohort.
- Patients who were prediabetic and drinking excessively were encouraged to reduce consumption and reduce the risk of diabetes.
- Worked with the NECS RAIDR team on alcohol screening and IBA within the Primary Care Dashboard.
- Conducted quarterly analysis and holding regular project meetings to discuss progress and potential issues.
Outcomes
- The recording of alcohol consumption and the delivery of IBA increased within Primary Care, and a two-fold increase in ICB delivery was seen compared with the control PCN.
- An additional 3,000 ‘increased risk’ drinkers were newly identified.
- 16,000 individuals received IBA with the approach increasing awareness across wider practice, resulting in an increase for practices’ overall populations.
- RAIDR have included functionality within the Primary Care Dashboard which will enable other PCNs to undertake a similar approach without the need for additional analytical support.