Internet-based Videoconferencing to Address Alcohol Use and Pain

Internet-based Video-conferencing to Address Alcohol Use and Pain Among Heavy Drinkers in HIV-care

This research seeks to develop a novel, integrated behavioral approach to reduce heavy drinking and chronic pain among patients in HIV-care delivered via internet-based videoconferencing. This first open trial pilot study seeks to recruit patients in the clinic through posted flyers, cards and physician referral.

This study seeks to develop an integrated, behavioral video telehealth approach to address pain and heavy alcohol use among patients living with HIV and determine its feasibility and acceptability. Through an open pilot trial, this phase of this project will deliver an integrated alcohol-pain behavioral intervention to people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) through videoconferencing. Intervention evaluation outcomes for this initial phase will include reduction of standard number of drinks per week, reduction in heavy drinking days, reduction of chronic pain severity and interference, ratings of patient satisfaction with treatment, and rate of treatment adherence.

Inclusion Criteria:

• engaged in HIV care, heavy drinking by more than 7/14 drinks per week (women/men) or by single episode of 4/5 (women/men), chronic (at least 3 months duration) moderate or greater (4 or more on the severity scale of the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) non-cancer related pain.

Exclusion Criteria:

• psychoactive medication for pain or alcohol use for few than 2 months
• history of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, other psychotic disorder
• current suicidal intent
• prior history of alcohol withdrawal related seizures or delirium tremens
• current behavioral treatment for pain or alcohol use
• any scheduled surgery within next 6 months or acute life-threatening illness that requires treatment