The role of the generalist in the care of the substance-abusing patient

Although substance abuse problems have a profound impact on individual health and well-being, family functioning, injury, work performance, and medical costs, these problems remain underdiagnosed and under-treated by physicians. The generalist has an important opportunity to intervene in this pervasive problem. The methods for screening, diagnosis, and intervention for substance abuse problems, as well as treatment approaches for full-fledged chemical dependence, are well established and empirically supported. Internal medicine can and should, therefore, play a greater role in caring for the substance-abusing patient.