Table 1 Description of the implemented integrated AUD facility-based intervention for the adapted AUD model

Training in management of AUD

The six-day training package was adapted from the WHO guidelines [29,30,31] and training packages by the program for improving mental health [32] to the Tanzanian context, such Tanzanian case scenarios and examples were used for practical and discussion sessions.

Facilitators, psychiatrists, and clinical psychologists.

(i)screening of AUD using a single question and AUDIT, (ii)treatment of AUD (psychoeducation about AUD, motivation interviewing, plan for a follow-up visit, and referral), and

(iii) documentation of AUD services.

A pre and post-test questionnaire

A questionnaire asks about knowledge on causes, risk factors of alcohol use and AUD, and management of people with AUD.

Screening of people with AUD

HCPs, during routine attendance/assessment of the outpatient seeking health care services, also screen for alcohol use

A single question to identify the need for full screening with AUDIT.

AUDIT enquires more about frequent alcohol patterns and sub-types of problematic alcohol use, planning AUD treatment accordingly.

Management of people AUD

Based on the AUDIT score, HCPs provide treatment to people identified with AUD as s per the WHO recommended approach for identification and management of AUD.

(i)Psychoeducation about AUD is provided as health education routinely provided before people receive health services.

(ii)Brief interventions using motivational interviews, and (iii)a plan for follow-up care was provided to people with harmful and hazardous AUD.

(iv)People with dependent AUD and those needing specialized care were referred to the district hospital.

Supportive supervision

The district mental health coordinator leads the study team’s monthly supportive supervision.

The goal of supervision was to provide in-service mentorship for AUD screening, management, data collection, and other comorbid mental health conditions.

A routine adapted supervision form was used to assess (i) administrative issues and (ii) clinical skills in diagnosis and treatment plans for AUD.

Documentation of AUD services

A data recording form was adapted in consultation with the HCPs and district mental health coordinator. A form was limited to the general description and diagnosis; An adapted form ensures a standardized and user-friendly approach.

An adapted routine form was used to document the following information

(i) a general description, (ii) a number of people who received screening for alcohol use, and (iii) a number of people who received intervention for AUD and information on referral to specialized care.