Risky alcohol use manifests in relationship dynamics, workplace behaviors, health status, and sometimes, the criminal justice system. While health care organizations may identify and treat risky use, court systems commonly deal with the repercussions.

With funding from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety, ICSI worked with a core team in Duluth to integrate the delivery of Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) for first-time Driving-While-Intoxicated (DWI) clients in a streamlined, expedited court process. Now, within a few weeks of arrest, these individuals receive help to address their risky behavior, potentially preventing additional offenses that may lead to DWI Court and/or jail time.

Analysis of early results indicates positive behavior change for the DWI client, improved court systems processes, and inter-organizational success in addressing community health. Additional time, funding and analysis is recommended to fully assess the impact this model has on recidivism, cost, and long-term positive behavior change in alcohol use. Read an executive summary or the complete report.

Substance Abuse Care: From the Clinic to the Courtroom, MD News, February 2016
Read more about how the Honorable Shaun Floerke and his team in Duluth are keeping up the great work providing screening, brief intervention and referrals to treatment to first-time DWI clients. Read online or view the PDF (used with permission).

KBJR-TV Duluth Highlights SBIRT Work With DWI Offenders

Updated 03/02/16