National data have shown that the vast majority of individuals with a SUD do not use any treatment in a 12-month period; financial (cost, insurance coverage) and psychological (stigma and denial) barriers are pervasive (SAMHSA, 2010b; Wu, 2010; Wu et al., 2007; Wu & Ringwalt, 2004; Wu et al., 2011), suggesting that routine screening for SUDs can be useful in promoting treatment use and reducing SUD-related problems (Madras et al., 2009; U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, 2004). The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has recommended screening and intervention for alcohol use problems in primary care settings (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, 2004). However, empirical data are limited to guide similar efforts for drug use problems, despite the fact that drug use is also a leading risk factor for the global burden of disability, increases health care costs, and can cause multiple medical illnesses and premature deaths (Brick, 2004; Tiet et al., 2008; World Health Organization, 2009). Lack of simplified and effective screening tools targeting drug use problems is clearly a hindrance to incorporating treatment for SUDs into routine care (Saitz et al., 2010; Tiet et al., 2008).
