The Wyoming Department of Health has issued the following news release:

The Wyoming Department of Health is strengthening its promotion of early screening for substance use-related health issues by reimbursing Wyoming healthcare providers who participate through its EqualityCare (Medicaid) program.

Known as Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT), the simple screening process involves just a few questions. Trained interviewers work with individuals to determine their risk level based upon behavior patterns. A brief educational intervention can significantly reduce or even end the person's use of harmful substances. For those whose screening indicates a severe problem or dependence, the next step is referral to Wyoming community mental health and substance abuse centers.

"Many people don't realize how their use of legal and illegal substances may impact their health," said Rodger McDaniel, Wyoming Department of Health deputy director for mental health and substance abuse services. "The goal is to educate before addiction sets in."

Research has shown that large numbers of individuals at risk of developing serious Alcohol or other drug problems may be identified through primary care screening.

"We want to involve Wyoming healthcare providers because screening in a medical setting can be particularly successful. The focus is on a person's health rather than appearing as a judgment on behaviors, and the patient controls how much information they want to receive," McDaniel said.

McDaniel expects SBIRT to eventually save the state money. "When you are able to intervene early with nondependent users before dependence has taken hold, you can decrease expensive substance abuse treatment costs, reduce hospital stays and see fewer emergency department visits."

Last year the Wyoming Department of Health began encouraging the practice around Wyoming in medical settings in places such as the Cheyenne Free Clinic, certain public health nursing offices and the Laramie County public defender's office.

Participating EqualityCare (Medicaid) providers are being notified of the new SBIRT billing code opportunities. Teri Green, State Medicaid Agent, encourages providers to begin impementing SBIRT in their health care settings. "The SBIRT process supports prevention and wellness. This is an excellent tool for provider to use to promote quality outcomes to the citizens of Wyoming, " said Teri Green. EqualityCare will begin covering SBIRT HCPCS codes H0049 & H0050 with dates of service beginning January 1, 2009, with training planned around the state. Initial training opportunities are expected in Rawlins, Rock Springs, Lander, Jackson, Riverton, Cheyenne and Casper.

For more information about SBIRT, contact the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Division at (307) 777-7071. Rembember, commit to your health and the health of others.