The interaction between research and policy--alcohol and general practice in the United Kingdom.

Research evidence is considered for the effectiveness of screening for alcohol consumption in general practice and for the effectiveness of brief interventions in general practice. Evidence is then considered for the effectiveness of dissemination of brief interventions throughout general practice. The example of dissemination of smoking interventions is used as similar data is not yet available for alcohol. The structure of the UK contract for general practice is discussed and its relationship to research findings considered. Finally, future directions for both research and policy are highlighted.