James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

HS5111 - Alcohol and Other Drugs

Subject Description

This subject supports skill and knowledge development of the rural generalist in analysing, planning and delivering assessments and interventions for consumers with Alcohol and Other Drug use issues and complex comorbidity, in a rural and/or remote context. Students will explore theories and models that have formed current thinking on Alcohol and Other Drug use in Australia before considering the use, harm and treatment of Alcohol and Other Drugs in the rural and remote context at both a national and local level. Students will gain an understanding of specific populations and groups vulnerable to the harms of substance use and extend their knowledge of substances. Interventions to reduce harm, those to screen and assess and intensive intervention are explored with a focus on psychosocial interventions. Primary concepts relating to health behaviour change, trauma and crisis management, coordinated care and Rural Generalist Service Delivery Strategies are also considered in meeting the challenges of working with consumers with Alcohol and Other Drug use issues in this environment.

Learning Outcomes

• communicate complex knowledge and ideas about alcohol and other drugs clearly and coherently to individual and organisational audiences
• apply advanced knowledge to critically analyse and plan a spectrum of evidence-based assessments and direct client interventions for consumers with substance use issues, including those with complex comorbidity
• critically reflect upon knowledge gaps and the delivery of assessments and interventions to generate personal learning plans that demonstrate responsibility and accountability as a practitioner providing safe and effective clinical services
• apply advanced knowledge of local, rural and remote health needs and service delivery models as related to substance use

Subject Assessment

• Oral > Presentation 1 - (30%) - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Portfolio - (70%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

Passing requirements: achieve a cumulative score of at least 50% after the application of any penalties such as late penalties.

Availabilities