A Sound Investment: Identifying and Treating Alcohol Problems

Authors

Jeffrey Hon, George Washington University

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

4-2003

Keywords

Alcohol; Substance Abuse

Abstract

The direct cost of alcohol problems is nowhere more evident than in the nation's hospitals and emergency rooms. One-fourth of all people admitted to general hospitals have alcoholism and as many as 30 percent of emergency room patients are problem drinkers, people who may not be dependent on alcohol, but drink in ways that endanger health and well-being. But these individuals are seeking medical attention for alcohol related illness and injury, not for their drinking. As a result, untreated alcoholism is driving up healthcare costs for both the public and private sector.

Comments

Funder: Pew Charitable Trusts.

APA Citation

Hon, J. (2003). A sound investment: Identifying and treating alcohol problems (Ensuring solutions to alcohol problems primer 3). Washington, D.C.: George Washington University Medical Center.

Open Access

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