Pathways to diagnosis, treatment and care of individuals with Alcohol Related Brain Damage (ARBD): A grounded theory approach from the perspective of health and social care professionals in the North-East of England

Abstract

Abstract

Background
Alcohol Related Brain Damage (ARBD), an umbrella term for all forms of damage to the Central Nervous System’s as a result of high levels of alcohol intake, and is often found in combination with poor diet. Appropriate diagnosis, treatment and care contributes to reductions in morbidity and mortality for people with ARBD and can result in cost savings. In the North-East of England large amounts of alcohol are consumed, reflected in the number of alcohol-related deaths in the region. However, the pathway for people with ARBD in the North-East of England to receiving diagnosis, treatment and care is unknown. Therefore, I aimed to investigate the pathways to diagnosis, treatment and care of individuals with ARBD in the North-East of England from a health and social care professional’s perspective.

Method
Qualitative in-depth semi-structured interviews with 25 health and social care professionals from organisations in the North-East of England involved in identifying, signposting, diagnosing, treating and caring for people with ARBDARBD recruited via snowball-sampling. Working within the Straussian Grounded Theory approach, interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and several stages of coding were conducted. This resulted in the emergence of six overarching themes.

Findings
There is no dedicated service for people with ARBDARBD but silos with revolving doors. Underfunded generic care with long waiting lists typically excludes those with alcohol or neurological problems. ARBDARBD remains misdiagnosed and underdiagnosed sometimes deliberately and professionals recognise the need for further training. ARBDARBD is driven both by culture and choice. Many barriers exist to helping people with ARBDARBD.

Discussion
A new and original model of the pathway for people with ARBDARBD in the North-East of England has been developed from the research findings, which can be used to highlight where a dedicated service could be placed, where signposting for such a service would be essential and problem areas in the current system. Further recommendations are made for policy, research and practice, for people with ARBD.

Date of Award	28 Mar 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Northumbria University
Supervisor	Katie Haighton (Supervisor) & William McGovern (Supervisor)