What is the purpose of a brief intervention in primary care for risky drinking?

• A. To diagnose substance use disorder
• B. To motivate the patient to reduce consumption and connect with resources
• C. To prescribe medication only
• D. To conduct extensive psychotherapy over months

Answer: (B)

Brief intervention in primary care is a short, focused conversation that helps a patient recognize the personal risks of risky drinking, boosts motivation to change, and connects them with resources or treatment options if needed. The aim is to prompt change without diagnosing a substance use disorder or providing lengthy therapy during a single visit. It uses clear, personalized feedback about drinking, concise advice to reduce intake, and helps the patient set a realistic plan with follow-up or referrals. If more intensive treatment or medications are appropriate, those would be addressed separately, but the primary purpose here is to motivate change and link to appropriate care.