Attitudes, practices, and preparedness to care for patients with substance use disorder: Results from a survey of general internists

Background: Previous research demonstrates that most primary care physicians feel unprepared to diagnose and treat substance use disorder (SUD). Confidence in SUD management has been associated with improved clinical practices. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 290 inpatient and outpatient general internists in an academic medical center evaluating attitudes, preparedness, and clinical practice related to SUD. Results: 149 general internists responded, a response rate of 51%. Forty-six percent frequently cared for patients with SUD. Sixteen percent frequently referred patients to treatment and 6% frequently prescribed a medication to treat SUD. Twenty percent felt very prepared to screen for SUD, 9% to provide a brief intervention, 7% to discuss behavioral treatments, and 9% to discuss medication treatments. Thirty-one percent felt that SUD is different from other chronic diseases because they believe using substances is a choice. Fourteen percent felt treatment with opioid agonists was replacing one addiction with another. Twelve percent of hospitalists and 6% of PCPs believe that someone who uses drugs is committing a crime and deserves punishment. Preparedness was significantly associated with evidence-based clinical practice and favorable attitudes. Frequently caring for patients with SUD was significantly associated with preparedness, clinical practice, and favorable attitudes. Conclusions: SUD is a treatable and prevalent disease, yet a majority of general internists do not feel very prepared to screen, diagnose, provide a brief intervention, refer to treatment, or discuss treatment options with patients. Very few frequently prescribe medications to treat SUD. Some physicians view substance use as a crime and a choice. Physician preparedness and exposure to SUD is associated with improved clinical practice and favorable attitudes towards SUD. Physicians need education and support to provide better care for patients with SUD.