Attitudes of healthcare professionals in a general hospital to patients with substance misuse disorders

Aims and method: To repeat a survey (reported 2007) of the attitudes of staff in a general hospital setting towards working with people who have substance misuse problems. Therapeutic attitude and the frequency of undertaking tasks related to dealing with substance misuse problems were measured using a modified version of the Alcohol and Alcohol Problems Perception Questionnaire (AAPPQ). The questionnaire was given to staff on wards in general hospitals where people with substance misuse problems are commonly admitted. Results: The questionnaire return rate of 24% was lower than 2007 and the possible reasons are discussed. Doctors, nurses and healthcare assistants all reported low levels of therapeutic commitment and lower than 2007. Older doctors scored the lowest and younger doctors highest. Brief training seemed to have a positive effect. Implications: The authors conclude that there should be a policy shift away from trying to "piggy back'' care of people with substance misuse problems onto practitioners in other clinical specialties. Although addiction problems are found in most areas of health and social care, the role of staff in treating addiction is limited - effective substance misuse treatment is best delivered by trained addiction practitioners.