Medical undergraduate training is “woefully inadequate for lifestyle interventions” when it comes to addiction issues, according to the ICGP’s Alcohol Project Director.


“The student doctor rotation system doesn’t help matters either,” said Rolande Anderson. “Because of the ‘revolving door’ syndrome, student doctors rarely see success stories or things coming to a positive resolution — which clearly puts them off this type of work and often encourages them to shy away from it entirely. This isn’t good for them, or for patients.”

The solution, Anderson suggests, is more seminars, workshops and specific training in this sensitive area.