Abstract
Alcohol abuse is a major factor in the aetiology of sickness. Yet this factor is seldom identified in routine practice. The doctor shares the denial of the community. Optimum conditions for breaching denial are provided in a coercive situation, such as the successful Alcohol in industry Programs.
The routine recording of alcohol intake of patients at the Royal Newcastle Hospital, now in its fourth year, has considerably improved awareness there of the importance of alcohol in health problems.
Failure to identify a significant causative factor in ill-health is negligent. The need to avoid negligence may provide a potent incentive to correct assessment.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Pat O'Neill
Both authors formerly Public Health Officers, Eastern Sydney Area Public Health Unit Previously general practitioner, Orange NSW, Australia.