Non-Stigmatising Practice
To avoid discriminatory practice, it is important that clinicians implement best practice, quality care and interventions (as described in these guidelines) just as they would for any other health issue and/or lifestyle risk factors. Best-practice principles for clinicians managing people experiencing problems with alcohol include:
-
- Compassionate, non-judgmental communication and care, and the ability of all staff to empathise, listen and provide support.
- Person-centred care that involves patients in discussions about their treatment.
- Strengths-based approaches that avoid characterising people merely by their use of substances (for example labelling someone an “alcoholic”).
| Chapter |
Recommendation |
Grade of recommendation |
| 3.4 |
All health professionals should apply best-practice standards (relevant to their own professions) to all patients irrespective of their alcohol use |
GPP |
| 3.5 |
Use person-centred practice that treats patients with respect and compassion and includes them in decision-making about their treatment |
GPP |
| 3.6 |
Consider using strengths-based practice for patients who may be or who disclose they are experiencing problems with alcohol |
GPP |
| 3.7 |
Refrain from making moral or personal judgements about alcohol use |
GPP |