About Implementation

Successful program implementation requires intentional effort [1], [2]. What does this mean for SBIRT? Training your staff members, learning new procedures, updating your electronic medical records, and similar steps are pieces of a broader puzzle. Integrating SBIRT into your organization will take time, planning, and resources.

While there are several ways to approach SBIRT implementation, below is a list of the steps we have successfully used to integrate and sustain SBIRT. These steps are expanded upon in downloadable implementation tools below and in self-paced implementation training modules.

1. Form an SBIRT team.
2. Review and modify organization policies and practice.
3. Determine and acquire supplies and resources needed.
4. Train staff to increase competency.
5. Provide messaging to the community.
6. Launch SBIRT.
7. Evaluate and improve.